Lions Policy on the Human Environment

Environmental Issues

Climate Change

Disasters and Conflicts

Ecosystem Management

Environmental Governance

Harmful Substances

Resource Efficiency

Successful Environment Projects

Resource Efficiency Issues

According to the UN Environment Programme, economic growth and social development cannot be sustained with current rates of consumption and production. Resources used to manufacture many products are being exhausted at an unprecedented rate, and the planet cannot replenish them. At the same time, a large proportion of the human population cannot meet their basic needs. To address this, there is an urgent need for the global community to consume less and use products and technology that increase resource efficiency (helping us make the most of the resources we have).

According to the 2005 Millennium Ecosystem Assessment, in the past 50 years people have drastically changed ecosystems to meet demands for food, fresh water, timber, fiber and fuel, which is not sustainable in the long term.

How Lions Can Help Provide Resource Efficiency Solutions

• Educate your community about the importance of energy conservation

• Promote the use of energy-efficient products and technologies

• Adopt and raise awareness about eco-friendly lifestyle choices

This UNEP fact sheet (PDF) provides additional information about resource efficiency issues.