There is an old belief that solving environmental problems can only be achieved by first building enough economic wealth so we can 'afford to save the environment.' This 'Kuznets Curve' thinking has never been correct and must be abandoned once and for all if we are serious about economic development for a thriving humanity on Earth.

The quote by Johan Rockström critiques the long-standing belief that economic wealth must precede environmental protection. This idea, often associated with the Kuznets Curve, suggests that societies will only address ecological issues after reaching a certain level of economic development. Rockström argues that this approach is flawed, emphasizing that delaying environmental action in favor of economic growth is both misguided and dangerous.

By rejecting the Kuznets Curve thinking, Rockström stresses that sustainable development requires simultaneous attention to economic, social, and environmental priorities. He highlights the interconnectedness of human prosperity and ecological health, suggesting that neglecting environmental protection undermines long-term economic and societal well-being. In other words, a thriving humanity depends on a healthy planet, not just financial growth.

The origin of this perspective comes from Rockström’s work as a leading Earth system scientist and director of the Stockholm Resilience Centre. He has been influential in framing concepts like planetary boundaries, which identify limits within which humanity can safely operate. His research shows that environmental degradation, if ignored, can ultimately stifle economic progress, making the idea of postponing environmental protection for wealth creation scientifically and ethically untenable.

Ultimately, the quote advocates for a fundamental shift in how policymakers and societies approach development. Rockström calls for abandoning outdated assumptions that economic growth must come first, emphasizing that protecting the environment is not a luxury but a prerequisite for genuine, long-term prosperity on Earth.