GRE4801
ASSIGNMENT 1 2025
UNIQUE NO.
DUE DATE: 19 MAY 2025
, GRE4801 Assignment 1
Question 1: History of the Green Economy (30 Marks)
1.1 Origin of the Green Economy (5 Marks)
The idea of the green economy took shape in the 1980s as a response to increasing
awareness of environmental degradation and the limits of traditional development
models. It was officially introduced through a landmark 1989 report titled Blueprint for a
Green Economy, commissioned by the UK government and authored by David Pearce,
Anil Markandya, and Edward Barbier. This document aimed to integrate environmental
sustainability into economic decision-making and policy, marking a shift toward valuing
natural capital and promoting eco-friendly development.
1.2 What a Green Economy Entails (5 Marks)
A green economy refers to an economic system that enhances human welfare and
promotes social equity, while drastically reducing environmental threats and the overuse
of natural resources. It is defined by being low in carbon emissions, efficient in resource
use, and inclusive in terms of social participation. In essence, a green economy strives
to decouple economic progress from ecological harm, ensuring that development today
does not compromise the environmental needs of future generations.
1.3 Historical Trajectory: Key Events in Chronological Order (10 Marks)
The evolution of the green economy is closely tied to major international environmental
milestones. Key events include:
1972 – The United Nations Conference on the Human Environment in
Stockholm marked the first global discussion on environmental issues, laying the
groundwork for international cooperation.
1987 – The publication of the Brundtland Report (Our Common Future)
introduced the concept of sustainable development, calling for economic growth
that meets current needs without compromising future generations.
ASSIGNMENT 1 2025
UNIQUE NO.
DUE DATE: 19 MAY 2025
, GRE4801 Assignment 1
Question 1: History of the Green Economy (30 Marks)
1.1 Origin of the Green Economy (5 Marks)
The idea of the green economy took shape in the 1980s as a response to increasing
awareness of environmental degradation and the limits of traditional development
models. It was officially introduced through a landmark 1989 report titled Blueprint for a
Green Economy, commissioned by the UK government and authored by David Pearce,
Anil Markandya, and Edward Barbier. This document aimed to integrate environmental
sustainability into economic decision-making and policy, marking a shift toward valuing
natural capital and promoting eco-friendly development.
1.2 What a Green Economy Entails (5 Marks)
A green economy refers to an economic system that enhances human welfare and
promotes social equity, while drastically reducing environmental threats and the overuse
of natural resources. It is defined by being low in carbon emissions, efficient in resource
use, and inclusive in terms of social participation. In essence, a green economy strives
to decouple economic progress from ecological harm, ensuring that development today
does not compromise the environmental needs of future generations.
1.3 Historical Trajectory: Key Events in Chronological Order (10 Marks)
The evolution of the green economy is closely tied to major international environmental
milestones. Key events include:
1972 – The United Nations Conference on the Human Environment in
Stockholm marked the first global discussion on environmental issues, laying the
groundwork for international cooperation.
1987 – The publication of the Brundtland Report (Our Common Future)
introduced the concept of sustainable development, calling for economic growth
that meets current needs without compromising future generations.
