Building a Sustainable Future: A Global Resource-Based Economy for Humanity and the Planet

Earth in a Drop of Water
"A resource-based economy empowers humanity by ensuring equal access to resources, fostering human rights, while nurturing the planet's health. It's a transformative path towards a sustainable and just world."

Michael Corthell

The Venus Project, founded by Jacque Fresco, proposes a global socio-economic system based on the idea of a resource-based economy. Peter Joseph, an activist and filmmaker, has also discussed similar concepts in his work, particularly in his "Zeitgeist" film series. While this article provides an overview of their ideas, it's important to understand that these are theoretical proposals, and their implementation, in reality, will require extensive planning, collaboration, and widespread societal consensus. But, as the reader shall see, resourcesim and its working socioeconomic system may be one of the most equitable and sustainable systems ever proposed.

The central idea behind a resource-based economy is to transition from our current monetary system, which is based on scarcity and profit, to a system that focuses on the intelligent management of Earth's resources for the benefit of all humanity. Here's a general outline of how such a system might be implemented:

  1. Resource Management: A comprehensive global survey would be conducted to assess the Earth's resources, including energy, raw materials, food production, and infrastructure. This data would form the basis for effective resource management.

  2. Automation and Technology: Advanced automation and technology would play a crucial role in optimizing resource utilization and minimizing waste. This would involve integrating artificial intelligence, robotics, and sustainable technologies into various industries.

  3. Sustainable Cities: Existing cities would undergo a transformation, incorporating sustainable design principles and utilizing renewable energy sources. New cities would be built from scratch, incorporating the latest advancements in architecture, transportation, and energy efficiency.

  4. Education and Collaboration: A significant emphasis would be placed on education and research, fostering a culture of lifelong learning and collaboration. This would encourage innovation and enable individuals to develop their skills based on their interests and aptitudes.

  5. Global Cooperation: The transition to a resource-based economy would require global cooperation and collaboration. International organizations would be established to facilitate communication, coordination, and the sharing of resources and knowledge between nations.

Exploring the potential benefits of a resource-based economy:

  1. Sustainable Resource Management: By intelligently managing Earth's resources, a resource-based economy aims to eliminate scarcity and ensure a sustainable future. This includes efficient energy usage, recycling and reusing materials, and adopting environmentally friendly practices.

  2. Elimination of Poverty: The current monetary system perpetuates income inequality and poverty. In a resource-based economy, access to necessities like food, shelter, healthcare, and education would be guaranteed for all individuals, irrespective of their economic background.

  3. Technological Advancements: The emphasis on automation and technology would lead to advancements in various fields, improving productivity and enhancing the overall quality of life. This could result in reduced working hours, increased leisure time, and greater opportunities for personal development.

  4. Improved Global Health: With a focus on sustainable living, including clean energy and environmentally friendly practices, a resource-based economy could mitigate climate change, reduce pollution, and improve overall global health. This would positively impact both human well-being and the health of the planet.

  5. Collaboration and Creativity: By fostering a culture of collaboration and providing equal access to education and resources, a resource-based economy encourages innovation, problem-solving, and creativity. This could lead to advancements in science, technology, medicine, and various other fields.

The transition to a resource-based economy will be a complex and challenging process, requiring a significant shift in societal values, political structures, and global cooperation. While the concept offers a vision of a more equitable and sustainable future, its implementation will require careful consideration, experimentation, and adaptation to address real-world complexities and potential challenges.

This short video gives us a further overview of the RBE:

References:

  1. "The Best That Money Can't Buy: Beyond Politics, Poverty & War" by Jacque Fresco - This book explores Jacque Fresco's vision for a resource-based economy and discusses the principles and ideas behind the Venus Project.

  2. "Zeitgeist: The Movie" - This documentary film by Peter Joseph discusses various social, economic, and political issues, including the concept of a resource-based economy.

  3. "Zeitgeist: Addendum" - A follow-up to the original film, "Zeitgeist: Addendum" delves deeper into the concepts of a resource-based economy and the need for social transformation.

  4. "Zeitgeist: Moving Forward" - The third installment in the Zeitgeist film series, this documentary explores the potential for a global transition to a resource-based economy and presents ideas for a sustainable future.

  5. "The Choice is Ours" - A documentary series produced by the Venus Project, "The Choice is Ours" provides an in-depth look at the proposed social, economic, and technological aspects of a resource-based economy.