California Wildfires and Global Impact
Recent wildfires in California caused around $250 billion in damage, highlighting the cost of development models in wealthy countries.
If all nations consumed resources like the U.S. or the EU, we'd need multiple Earths to sustain that lifestyle.
Issues with HDI and PHDI
The Human Development Index (HDI) focuses on life expectancy, education, and income but ignores environmental impacts.
Countries like Ireland and Norway rank high in HDI but are major polluters and consumers.
The modified Planetary Pressures-adjusted HDI (PHDI) considers environmental impact but still doesn't reflect absolute ecological limits, creating a false sense of progress.
Middle-Income Countries as Sustainable Models
Middle-income countries like Costa Rica and Sri Lanka show that high living standards can be achieved without overburdening the planet.
Costa Rica balances development with environmental protection through renewable energy and forest conservation.
Sri Lanka has achieved strong social progress but faces challenges, showing that sustainable development also requires social and political stability.
India’s Path Forward
India cannot mimic the consumption patterns of affluent nations due to its large population and limited resources.
It must adopt development models that respect ecological boundaries and prioritize social and environmental justice.
True progress should focus on sustainability and dignity, not just GDP growth or HDI rankings.
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