Natural Capitalism: Creating the Next Industrial Revolution

A New Way of Thinking About Business

In Natural Capitalism, Paul Hawken argues that the current economic system is unsustainable and that we need to adopt a new way of thinking about business. He proposes a "natural capitalism" that is based on the principles of ecology and sustainability.

The Four Tenets of Natural Capitalism

Hawken identifies four key principles of natural capitalism:

1. Nature's services are essential to the economy. The economy is a wholly owned subsidiary of the environment. We depend on nature for everything from the air we breathe to the food we eat. When we damage nature, we damage the economy.
2. The throughput of materials and energy must be reduced. The current economic system is based on a linear model of production and consumption. We take resources from the earth, use them to make products, and then throw them away. This model is unsustainable because it is depleting our natural resources and polluting the environment.
3. The use of renewable energy sources must be increased. Fossil fuels are a finite resource and they are also a major source of pollution. We need to transition to renewable energy sources, such as solar and wind power, in order to create a sustainable economy.
4. Investment in natural capital must be increased. Natural capital refers to the assets that nature provides us with, such as clean air, water, and soil. We need to invest in natural capital in order to maintain the health of the environment and the economy.

The Benefits of Natural Capitalism

Hawken argues that natural capitalism can provide a number of benefits, including:

• Increased economic growth. Natural capitalism can lead to increased economic growth by creating new jobs and businesses.
• Reduced environmental impact. Natural capitalism can help to reduce the environmental impact of business by reducing pollution, conserving resources, and increasing the use of renewable energy.
• Improved social equity. Natural capitalism can help to improve social equity by creating jobs for people who are currently unemployed or underemployed.
• Increased resilience. Natural capitalism can help to make businesses more resilient to economic shocks and environmental disasters.

Conclusion

Natural Capitalism is a powerful and persuasive argument for a new way of thinking about business. Hawken provides a clear and concise explanation of the principles of natural capitalism and the benefits that it can provide. This book is a must-read for anyone who is interested in creating a more sustainable and just economy.

Quotes from Natural Capitalism

• "The economy is a wholly owned subsidiary of the environment."
• "The throughput of materials and energy must be reduced."
• "The use of renewable energy sources must be increased."
• "Investment in natural capital must be increased."
• "Natural capitalism can provide a number of benefits, including increased economic growth, reduced environmental impact, improved social equity, and increased resilience."