Write a 500 word critical summary of the text which explicitly addresses the following questions
- How is sustainability defined in the text?
- What are the main characteristics or tendencies of Capitalism
- Define a 'crisis of Capitalism'. Offer an example.
- What solutions have been offered to the sustainability question? Are these successful or realistic? - If not why are they flawed?
- Is the concept of sustainability compatible with Capitalism?
Sustainability is defined in two ways within the text as inter and intra- generational equality in the social environments, economic , moral and political spheres of society, persisting over generations. Ideologically sustainability is a communal concept, it requires everyone to contribute. Capitalism however interferes and hinders the progress of sustainability it uses sustainability as a commodity. Within capitalism is a constant need for money profit and expansion, the market is always seeking the next big thing. Capitalism in a sense has always got its head up looking for the next commodity there is always a crisis and sustainable practices are the new commodity to fill their void.
It gets complicated when these two ideologies attempt to run alongside one another, both are very different one goes forward for the good of all the other wants to do the same but make money along the way, it is this greed that acts as stumbling block. As much as capitalism shares the idea it also wants to make profit and this is central to its motivation, this however can mean potential harm to communities and the environment they share.
An example of the capitalist machine bulldozing over a community is the construction of the BIOX plant situated in the north east of Hamilton. It is a prime example of capitalism attempting to co exist with sustainability but forgetting the key driving force behind the process, the well being of people, the capitalist saw profit first.
In theory this looks a good idea Bio diesel is a sustainable solution, easily recyclable and reduces waste production all fantastic for the environment. The problem arises when you take a small project and attempt to make it a profitable business. Saving the environment is all very well but then a plant has to be constructed, is that good for the environment and its inhabitants. It is environment that the capitalists are guilty of destroying. Hamilton is a fantastic example of such ignorance the plant was erected on the communities only green space, and very little thought was given to the health risks this imposed on the surrounding residents. For the capitalists this was of little concern, it was a cheap and easy solution there was no fuss or objection due to the poor authority involved. The effects foe locals were not only losing the their only green space, but constant tremors from the plant resulted in structural damage to surrounding buildings including many homes. This was also coupled with noise, light and air pollution. The plant was also guilty of massive breaches in safety regulations such as the release of flammable chemicals as well as sulphuric acid. All of which seriously effected the health of residents.
All of this is down to pure capitalist greed all in the name of progress for a few lousy quid, they would argue that it was all for the greater good and that sacrifices must be made but when this involves the well being of people for profit, this causes the two ideas to clash.
The huge problem is for Bio diesel to become effective it must be widespread and assessable to customers to do this more plants have to be built resulting in further suffering for local communities. For me this is a prime example of sustainability not working alongside capitalism. There are elements of the two that that work in unison BIOX fuel ticks some sustainable boxes, the huge problem is that companies will always want to expand and make profit. With this in mind it makes it impossible for the two to thrive alongside on another.
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