Institutionalising Environmental Space at the Global Level

摘要: Introduction The notion of environmental space has much to offer those who wish advance sustainability and sustainable development. Based on two main principles, the recognition limits a strong equity principle, it provides guidance, methodology, for 'making concrete', framework development coherent integrated policy from global local level. However, important questions remain about whether how can should be institutionalised, especially at This paper will discuss three means, or rather approaches, by which concept could institutionalised level: commercialisation in form tradable entitlements, as exemplified greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions trading schemes; 'green planning', Agenda 21 adoption Millennium Goals seen (weak) examples; income policy. Although latter hardly entered international agenda, there are good reasons considering this option seriously. All options discussed assessed their relative strengths weaknesses, with regard ecological effectiveness (the extent they prevent further erosion basis), (in terms shares used groups individuals), feasibility availability practicability means implementation political support basis implementation), efficiency (their costs implementation). But first, I provide some clarification space. Environmental was first introduced Horst Siebert 1982. It been defined "The total provided earth our use without diminishing possibilities future" (Davidson 1995), advanced specifically aim "make concrete" (Buitenkamp, Venner Wams 1992, 17-18, Opschoor Weterings 1994). analysts set out determine 'allowable' resource consumption geographical (depending question), guidance governments within territories reduced expanded. is based core principles: respect limits, equal access resources. To these, several other principles have added, depending advocate author (Carley Spapens 1998, 8-9, Moffatt 1996, 50-52). need idea that capacity absorb pollution waste associated exploitation ('throughput' material). not possible these absolute precision, often only become apparent once transgressed, enough known able indicative (and adaptable) targets. advocates also concur precautionary principle: uncertainty an excuse accepting setting limits. noted argument does so refer world running resources, characterised 'red herring' 85). In most cases, imposed 'new scarcity' (ecological limits)(Simpson, Toman Ayres 2005), available reserves, although Hille others note that, range non-renewable materials, depletion may indeed pose problem, providing case restrictions scarcity (Cohen 2007, 1997, 15). second principle all people (those living now future generations) rights (strong principle). …