Unsustainable livelihoods

Environmentally insensitive employment
Environmentally destructive jobs

Nature

A sustainable livelihood is a job that is meaningful, pays adequately, and does not harm the resource base of the local or national economy. Currently, many nations do not have explicit policies to encourage the creation of this kind of job; moreover, unsustainable livelihoods are usually not officially discouraged.

Background

The global significance of unsustainable livelihoods emerged in the late 20th century, as researchers and development agencies observed persistent poverty and environmental degradation linked to resource-dependent communities. Landmark studies in the 1990s, such as those by the International Institute for Environment and Development, highlighted how short-term survival strategies undermined long-term well-being. This recognition spurred international dialogues, notably at the 1992 Earth Summit, framing unsustainable livelihoods as a critical barrier to sustainable development.

Incidence

Unsustainable livelihoods affect hundreds of millions globally, particularly in regions where economic activities deplete natural resources or undermine long-term community resilience. This problem is prevalent in sectors such as small-scale agriculture, fishing, and forestry, where overexploitation and environmental degradation threaten both ecosystems and the well-being of local populations. The persistence of unsustainable livelihoods contributes to cycles of poverty, food insecurity, and forced migration, making it a significant concern in both developing and developed countries.
In 2022, Madagascar experienced severe food shortages as unsustainable slash-and-burn agriculture practices led to widespread deforestation and soil degradation, exacerbating drought impacts and threatening rural livelihoods.

Claim

Government assertions that small local enterprises offering sustainable livelihoods cannot compete with large ones that do not are only true because the government subsidizes the large corporations' infrastructure, energy use and debt load, which it will not do for smaller enterprises.

Counter-claim

The concern over "unsustainable livelihoods" is vastly overstated. Human ingenuity and market forces have always adapted to changing circumstances, ensuring survival and progress. Focusing on this so-called problem distracts from real, pressing issues like technological innovation and economic growth. People naturally shift to better opportunities as old ways become obsolete. Worrying about unsustainable livelihoods is unnecessary alarmism that hinders advancement rather than helping anyone.