The stress on the earth’s natural systems caused by human activity has considerably worsened in the 25 years since the 1992 Rio Earth Summit in Brazil. As a result of the "great acceleration"1 in human economic activity since the mid-20th century, research from many earth system scientists’ suggests that life on land could be entering a period of unprecedented environmental systems change.

This report by HPBS examines international experience with and government tools for promoting sustainable development, green construction, and energy efficiency.

The review, prepared by BCG, collects materials on the environment, climate change issues and their possible solutions, as well as other environmental challenges.