Environmental Context

Limits to Growth

Computer Simulations

Limits to Growth

Significant Writings
Computer Simulations
Reactions and Responses
Case Study: Population
References
Site Map
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Book cover

Computer Model Parameters

  • population
  • food production
  • industrialisation
  • pollution
  • consumption of resources

Mathematical model
Exponential growth
Positive feedback loops
Findings
Conclusions

 

A major study commissioned by the Club of Rome was undertaken by a team of scientists at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) in the USA and published in a book called The Limits to Growth. The study used a computerised mathematical model of the world economy to show that the existing exponential rates of growth of population and economic activity could not continue indefinitely on a planet that had only limited natural resources and limited ability to deal with pollution.

 


© 2001 Sharon Beder