State of the World 1999 presents a clear and concise view of our changing world that we and our leaders cannot afford to ignore. The 16th edition of this authoritative annual review takes an insightful look at the sweeping changes of the last 100 years and the challenges we face in the next century to build a sustainable economy that reuses and recycles materials, is powered by renewable energy sources and has a stable population. It provides a framework for the global debate about our future in the twenty‐first century and a guide to emerging solutions.
The list of themes dealt with is very wide: chapters on “Sustaining humanity in the twenty‐first century”, “Anticipating the next energy revolution”, “Closing the materials loop”, “Feeding nine billion”, “Restoring the health of the oceans”, “Sustaining nature′s diversity”, “Finding a new balance with forests”, “Exploring a new vision for cities”, “Ending human conflict” and “Economics for the twenty‐first century” deal with some of the most pressing environmental issues seen today. Moreover, the chapters are richly illustrated and enhanced by examples and case studies which bring each single issue closer to one′s own surroundings.
This is an essential handbook for students and researchers in all social science and scientific subjects as well as for environmentalists, social activists and anyone concerned with building a positive, global future. It is relied upon by national governments, UN agencies, development workers and law‐makers for its authoritative and up‐to‐the‐minute analysis and information.
