Defining Resource Wisdom

RESOURCE WISDOM

"The decrease in natural resources, population growth and climate change is forcing global societies to become more efficient and cut emissions. Wiser use of resources is now an asset in international competition.

Investing in regional resource efficiency increases ecological sustainability, but the benefits also manifest themselves in improved financial and social well-being. Energy efficiency increases, there are lower emissions, the local economy is enhanced and self-sufficiency increases."

(Sitra)

Resource wisdom is closely related to circular economy in the sense that it emphaisezes efficient management of scarce resources for the wellbeing of both the environent and economy. These two aspects are visible in Sitra's definition of resource wisdom.

In resource wisdom, the calculation of ecological footprints is essential. For instance, residentail areas can be designed based on the principles of resource wisdom. An example of this is the international One Planet Living initiative which is being applied for the first time in Finland to the planning of the residential areas of Kivistö and Kangas. It aims to make sustainable and resource-wise living comfortable, inexpensive and easy by designing energy-efficient buildings and optimizing local traffic.

http://www.sitra.fi/en/ecology/resource-wisdom

Elina