The Asian approach to a resource-circulating society - Research framework, prospects and networking

One of the main challenges in sustainability science is to develop visions of a sustainable society. For example, the Japanese government defines the concept of a sustainable society as a combination of a low-carbon society, a resource-circulating society and a naturally symbiotic society. However, a holistic vision integrating these three societal visions has not yet been presented or fully clarified. Developing visions is thus essential to setting targets for a sustainable society as well as for assembling the various technological, political and grassroots measures required to achieve those targets. For this purpose, numerous scenarios have been proposed (IPCC, 2007; Japan LCS Scenario Team, 2008; International Energy Agency, 2004). However, scenarios focusing on a resource-circulating society (RCS) have rarely been put forward. Describing sustainability scenarios is an effective approach in discussions of a sustainable society and for creating a consensus regarding this society. Moreover, by analysing existing sustainability scenarios, we can identify their essential problem structures and develop potential solutions for achieving sustainability.

Related Subject(s): Economic and Social Development