7. Sustainable economic development

‘Sustainable economic development’ asks whether growth is compatible with sustainable economic development. The existence of ‘natural capital’ is not well characterized in current research, but the importance of economic growth on the environment is seen in current trade expansion and global warming debates. Sustainable development needs to promote growth now without sacrificing future generations' productive base, and this is best predicted by the combined measure of inclusive wealth and institutions. Has recent economic growth been sustainable? Research shows that for most developing countries growth was at best barely sustainable, if not unsustainable.