Planning the Way Forward and Reality Check

Abstract

In order to reduce the disruptive effects of an impending shortfall of resources, countries need to start preparations. However, due to the complexity of the issues and the lack of debate, it is unlikely that decision makers will implement strong measures ahead of adverse developments. Most probably, experts and decision makers will continue to avoid viewing the entire picture for as long as possible. Revisiting some of the key aspects, there are strong indications that the situation demands urgent attention. The increasing complexity of modern society makes transformation more complex; there are a few short-term incentives for people to start the change themselves, people lack experience of resource shortages, and it is difficult to see the roles of different types of player in the transformation.