To build on our definition of sustainability, I use this section to focus on the historical roots of our unsustainable society. There are two cases studies where historical interactions and mindsets led to environmental degradation and social inequality that is still apparent today: New England Colonization and Harp Seal Hunting in Canada.
These cases describe historically unsustainable practices through the ecological framework and the social science framework, respectively. These perspectives can teach us how to properly frame environment-society interactions so we can avoid unsustainable practices in the future.
Click on the images below to view each case.
New England Colonization
The Harp Seal Hunt
I discuss how these frameworks can be used for future sustainability initiatives in Envisioning the Future.