nature, its phases of decay and regeneration, or the complexity of ecosystems which may be gravely
upset by human intervention. Moreover, biodiversity is considered at most a deposit of economic
resources available for exploitation, with no serious thought for the real value of things, their
significance for persons and cultures, or the concerns and needs of the poor.
191. Whenever these questions are raised, some react by accusingothers of irrationally attempting to
stand in the way of progress and human development. But we need to grow in the conviction that a
decrease in the pace of production and consumption can at times give rise to another form of progress
and development. Efforts to promote a sustainable use of natural resources are not a waste ofmoney,
but rather an investment capable of providing other economic benefits in themedium term. Ifwe look
at the larger picture, we can see thatmore diversified and innovative forms of productionwhich impact
less on the environment can prove very profitable. It is a matter of openness to different possibilities
which do not involve stifling human creativity and its ideals of progress, but rather directing that
energy alongnew channels.
192. For example, a path of productive development, which is more creative and better directed,
could correct the present disparity between excessive technological investment in consumption and
insufficient investment in resolving urgent problems facing the human family. It could generate
intelligent and profitable ways of reusing, revamping and recycling, and it could also improve the
energy efficiencyof cities. Productive diversification offers the fullest possibilities to human ingenuity
to create and innovate, while at the same time protecting the environment and creatingmore sources of
employment. Such creativitywould be aworthy expression of ourmost noble human qualities, for we
would be striving intelligently, boldly and responsibly to promote a sustainable and equitable
development within the context of a broader concept of quality of life. On the other hand, to find ever
newways of despoiling nature, purely for the sake of new consumer items and quick profit, would be,
inhuman terms, lessworthyand creative, andmore superficial.
193. In any event, if in some cases sustainable development were to involve new forms of growth,
then in other cases, given the insatiable and irresponsible growth produced over many decades, we
need also to think of containing growth by setting some reasonable limits and even retracing our steps
before it is too late. We know how unsustainable is the behaviour of those who constantly consume
and destroy, while others are not yet able to live in a wayworthy of their human dignity. That is why
