Problem
Conservation advocates from industrialized nations have long pushed to set aside land in biodiversity-rich regions of developing nations. Leaders of developing nations have accused them of neocolonialism (look this word up if you don't know what it means). "Your nations attained prosperity and power by over exploiting your environment decades or centuries ago," these leaders ask "so why should we now sacrifice our development by setting aside our land and resources?" Discussion Leaders this week will represent different "stakeholders" and answer the following questions:
1. Do you think the developing nations' argument is valid? Why or why not?
2. Is it possible to develop an economy without serious environmental impacts?
3. What would you say to the conservation advocates? Is it fair to ask developing nations to set aside their natural capital (forests, mineral resources, energy resource, water, etc.)?
4. Propose a conservation plan in which both preservation and development goals might be reached.
A. Should conservation advocates be able to set aside land in biodiversity-rich regions?
B. Should developing nations allow them too?
C. What would be a good way to allow both to get what they desire?