State of the world, 2004 : a Worldwatch Institute report on progress towards a sustainable society

State of the World 2004 takes a fresh look at the trends that have put the global economy on a collision course with the Earth's ecosystems. This year's edition has a special focus on the theme of consumption. It questions whether a less-consumptive society is possible; and concludes that it is essential. The book explores overconsumption, a by-product of affluence; and underconsumption, linked to poverty, and provides'behind the scenes'exposes of the devastating environmental impacts of some of our most popular products, from plastic bags, to paper, to mobile phones. Published annually in 28 languages, each edition draws on the breadth of expertise of Worldwatch's award-winning team of writers and researchers. State of the World is relied upon by national governments, UN agencies, development workers and law-makers for its authoritative and up-to-the-minute analysis and information. It is essential for anyone concerned with building a positive, global future. Focusing on the complex relationships between the globalizing economy and the health of Earth's environment, the latest edition of the annual survey by the Worldwatch Institute reveals the health of the planet's ecosystems, describes and analyzes a variety of global environmental issues and problems, and recommends practical, innovative solutions to the problems. Simultaneous. Takes a look at the trends that have put the global economy on a collision course with the Earth's ecosystems. This book focuses on the theme of consumption. It questions whether a less-consumptive society is possible and concludes that it is essential. It explores overconsumption - by-product of affluence; and underconsumption, linked to poverty. [This book] examines how we consume, why we consume, and what impact our consumption old growth lumber to gas guzzling cars, many of the things we buy support destructive chasing power to build markets for less-hazardous products, including fair traded foods, green power, and fuel cell vehicles.-- From back cover "State of the World 2004" takes a fresh look at the trends that have put the global economy on a collision course with the Earth's ecosystems. The 2004 edition has a special focus on the theme of consumption, exploring both overconsumption - due to affluence, and underconsumption - due to poverty China has a well-deserved reputation as the land of the bicycle.