The Extractive Economy: From Extraction to Sustainability

This lecture by the instructor explores the historical growth of population and economic activities through increased extraction of resources from animals, agricultural land, humans, forests, fossil energy sources, and minerals. It discusses the transition from the traditional 'take and give back waste' economy to a sustainable economy based on permaculture. The lecture also presents different views on the possibility of economic growth, emphasizing the importance of managing scarce resources and staying within planetary boundaries. Policy implications are discussed, ranging from encouraging immaterial 'consumption' and equity to fostering innovation, democracy, and the transformation of economic systems.