In class we discussed the graph of Human Development Index vs. Ecological Footprint. Typically, as countries move to greater levels of HDI, they also move up in terms of per capita ecological footprint. One such example is the U.S. The problem is that Planet Earth cannot sustain all countries occupying the same ecological footprint as the U.S. We are particularly concerned about the trajectories of several countries with large populations and rapidly developing economies (namely China, India and Brazil). Choosing one of these three countries, discuss its current and future development challenges and what it might be able to do to achieve high HDI yet maintain low ecological footprint. What are the barriers in terms of institution, culture, economy and technology? How will climate change affect its development path, in terms of threats and opportunities? Be specific and descriptive.
