ABSTRACT
The most recent Limits to Growth study concluded that global sustainability is still achievable, but not by markets and technology alone, that is, lifestyle changes will be required. Modeling efforts often focus on two future scenarios based on the current scientific knowledge. One path is "business as usual", and the other is a truly sustainable path. The internal risk involves the two components of sustainability, economic and social: public goods and common pool resources may be appropriated by the powerful, leading to rising income inequality and social unrest. The unsustainability of China's growth is evident in the growing size of its ecological footprint (EF). The Chinese government officials have instituted many policy changes to promote sustainable development, but the pace and scale of environmental change may still lead to social instability. China's local and national governments have suppressed information about soil pollution and resulting food contamination.
