Factor Five: Transforming the Global Economy through 80% Improvements in Resource Productivity, A Report to the Club of Rome

Now that scientists are clearly warning that rapid action on climate change and environmental sustainability is needed, it is imperative that the coming decades see a significant improvement in resource productivity as part of a broader sustainable development agenda. This is the focus of this new report led by one of the world's leading sustainabile development experts, and supported by a team of young engineers and scientists dedicated to a sustainable future. The work draws from a growing number of dedicated efforts from across the various sectors around the world. It shows that by taking an integrated whole of system approach, 80 per cent improvements in resource productivity can and are being acheived.
Spanning dozens of countries and examining many cases of innovation in design, technology and policy, the book tackles sustainable development and climate change by providing in-depth studies covering residential and commerical buildings, the cement and steel industries, agriculture and the transportation sector. The book is futher supported by additional online Sector Studies of important sectors including the paper and pulp industries, data-centres and IT. These 'Sector Studies' are complemented by an exploration of the policy frameworks and mechanisms needed to support them. Together they provide the most comprehensive roadmap showing how the world's economies can rapidly reduce their resource consumption, and associated pollution, while underpinning strong economic growth.