Discovery and sustainability

Abstract

Although we must rely on natural resources, especially for their functional value, our supplies are finite. A key challenge is to find solutions for sustaining development. We do not need natural resources as such, but we need their functions or physical and chemical properties. To find solutions for functions, there are three reservoirs: the combined resources of the geosphere and the technosphere and the unlimited resource of human ingenuity. With these, enough time, and the wisdom to plan ahead, we can find the necessary solutions for sustainability on Earth.