Chapter1_Introduction to Sustainability.pptx

SUST 101

1. Introduction to Sustainability Chapter – 1 Muhammad Asif Malik Lecturer, Al- Fayha College

2. Introduction to Sustainability An Introduction to Sustainability: Humanity and the Environment What is Sustainability? The IPAT Equation Human Consumption Patterns and the “Rebound” Effect Challenges for Sustainability

3. Learning Objectives of Chapter 1 Learn the meaning of sustainability in its modern context Acquire a basic facility for using the IPAT equation Learn about patterns of human consumption Understand the major factors that contribute to unsustainable impacts

4. Definitions of Sustainability Oxford English Dictionary Sustainability is “the quality of being sustained at a certain rate or level; the property of being environmentally sustainable; the degree to which a process or enterprise is able to be maintained or continued while avoiding the long-term depletion of natural resources.” United Nations report “Our Common Future” by Gro Harlem Brundtland in 1987: “Sustainable development is development that meets the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs” University of British Columbia, 20-Year Sustainability Strategy Sustainability means simultaneous improvements in human and environmental wellbeing, not just reductions in damage or harm

5. The IPAT Equation As is the case for any equation, IPAT expresses a balance among interacting factors. It can be stated as I = P × A × T where   I  represents the impacts of a given course of action on the environment,  P  is the relevant human population for the problem at hand,  A  is the level of consumption per person, and  T  is impact per unit of consumption. Impact per unit of consumption is a general term for technology, interpreted in its broadest sense as any human-created invention, system, or organization that serves to either worsen or uncouple consumption from impact. The equation is not meant to be mathematically rigorous; rather it provides a way of organizing information for a “first-order” analysis .

6. Vision 2030: A Sustainable Saudi Vision Sustainability is a pillar of Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030. Vision 2030 is transforming cities and elevating quality of life by introducing sustainable urban greening, which provides abundant green spaces and opportunities to connect with nature. By taking a responsible and creative approach amid today's energy and climate challenges, Vision 2030 is becoming a global model on the journey towards a sustainable future. To achieve it goals, Kingdom is focusing on two major fronts: Renewable and Clean Energy; and Environmental Protection, Preservation, and Enhancement.

7. Vision 2030: Environment and Nature Sustainability is a pillar of Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 and the Kingdom’s pledge to reach net-zero emissions by 2060. With a commitment to clean energy and sustainability, the Kingdom is leading the charge in tackling energy and climate challenges with innovative solutions. Solutions include such as the Circular Carbon Economy (CCE) and an increasingly diverse energy mix, in which 50% of energy will come from renewable sources by 2030. The environment and biodiversity are being protected through sustainable agriculture and conservation efforts, including the creation of wildlife sanctuaries and sustainable tourism initiatives that safeguard endangered species and preserve the natural landscape of the Kingdom.

8. Vision 2030: Tourism and Heritage Since the launch of Vision 2030, Saudi Arabia is more open than ever before welcoming people from around the globe. With the introduction of the e-visa in 2019, millions of visitors have been drawn to the Kingdom, which has helped in creating jobs and driving local economic growth. To further promote the country as a tourist destination, initiatives in the areas of archaeology, culture, education, and the arts are being undertaken to preserve the Kingdom's rich heritage and natural beauty, while opening it up to the world. Major events like the Red Sea International Film Festival and the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix are attracting visitors and showcasing the Kingdom's warm hospitality. Additionally, as a central location in the Arab and Islamic world, Saudi Arabia is enhancing its facilities and services to provide pilgrims with an unforgettable spiritual experience. As it welcomes the world to come and experience its unique offering, the Kingdom's breathtaking beauty and rich heritage make it a must-visit destination.

9. Vision 2030: Business and Economy Vision 2030 is building a dynamic and diverse economy, driving growth in new industries, attracting investment, and providing entrepreneurs with the tools for success. Young Saudis now have a world of opportunity at their fingertips – the economy is transforming the Kingdom, delivering social reforms, entertainment and sporting events, and projects that inspire new ways of living and working. The government is fostering an open, welcoming economic environment that attracts foreign investment and supports local talent through progressive regulations and reforms. The success of Vision 2030 is powered by the ambition of entrepreneurial citizens who are starting businesses, driving growth in the private sector, and paving the way for the future . With innovative funding strategies, supportive regulations, and talent development programs, Vision 2030 is shaping the future of Saudi Arabia, ensuring a bright and prosperous future for all.

10. Vision 2030: Dynamic Society Saudi Arabia has undergone a remarkable transformation under Vision 2030, where social and cultural reforms, and digital transformation are at the forefront of a dynamic society. Women's empowerment and youth engagement are top priorities of social reform. Greater access to education and jobs are making the Kingdom a more inclusive society. With citizens becoming more engaged in volunteering and charitable initiatives, the spirit of compassion and giving in society is stronger than ever. Saudi society is characterized by its youthful and diverse population, who enjoy a wealth of opportunities available in the Kingdom. This includes the growing vibrancy citizens, residents and visitors are experiencing in Saudi Arabia - from concerts and premier art festivals to global sporting events, the Kingdom is now a home to world-class entertainment. The government is also dedicated to improving and digitizing public services to better meet the needs of citizens, residents, and businesses. With Vision 2030, Saudi Arabia is a country that cultivates diversity, fosters opportunity, and empowers everyone to reach their full potential.

11. Middle East Green Initiative (MGI) The Middle East Green Initiative (MGI) is catalyzing a collaborative regional approach to combating climate change. MGI will build a greener future for generations to come, while fostering economic diversification, creating jobs, and attracting private sector investment. Reduce emission Plant 50 billion trees Restore 200mn hectares of degraded land

12. Human Consumption Patterns and the “Rebound” Effect Jevons paradox The principle that as technological progress increases the efficiency of resource utilization, consumption of that resource will increase. Overconsumption A long-term result in which the increase in consumption is greater than the efficiency improvement. Eco-efficiency An approach that seeks to minimize environmental impacts by maximizing material and energy efficiencies of production.

13. Human Consumption Patterns and the “Rebound” Effect In 1865  William Jevons  (1835-1882), a British economist, wrote a book entitled “ The Coal Question . ” In this book he presented data on the depletion of coal reserves yet, seemingly paradoxically, an increase in the consumption of coal in England throughout most of the 19 th  century. He theorized that significant improvements in the efficiency of the steam engine had increased the utility of energy from coal and, in effect, lowered the price of energy, thereby increasing consumption.

14. Human Consumption Patterns and the “Rebound” Effect This is known as the  Jevons paradox , the principle that as technological progress increases the efficiency of resource utilization, consumption of that resource will increase. Increased consumption that negates part of the efficiency gains is referred to as “rebound,” while  overconsumption  is called “backfire.” Such a counter-intuitive theory has not been met with universal acceptance, even among economists (see, for example, “ The Efficiency Dilemma “). Many environmentalists, who see improvements in efficiency as a cornerstone of sustainability, openly question the validity of this theory. After all, is it sensible to suggest that we  not  improve technological efficiency?

15. Human Consumption Patterns and the “Rebound” Effect Whether or not the paradox is correct, the fact that it has been postulated gives us pause to examine in somewhat greater depth consumption patterns of society.    If we let  Q  be the quantity of goods and services delivered (within a given time period) to people, and  R  be the quantity of resources consumed in order to deliver those goods and services, then the IPAT equation can be rewritten in a slightly different way as:

16. Human Consumption Patterns and the “Rebound” Effect

17. Human Consumption Patterns and the “Rebound” Effect

18. Challenges for Sustainability

19. Challenges for Sustainability In 1865  William Jevons  (1835-1882), a British economist, wrote a book entitled “ The Coal Question . ” In this book he presented data on the depletion of coal reserves yet, seemingly paradoxically, an increase in the consumption of coal in England throughout most of the 19 th  century. He theorized that significant improvements in the efficiency of the steam engine had increased the utility of energy from coal and, in effect, lowered the price of energy, thereby increasing consumption.