If the only sources of materials for use by the world population are the materials in the earth itself and Energy from the sun. If we continue to promote world economic growth, at what point does the rate of consumption of resources exceed available Energy. Isn't the world population destined, therefore, for zero or negative growth in order not to become extinct.
Obviously, today in certain areas of the world there are already resource issues...no electricity, no potable water, no waste control, etc. In highly populated areas we are having similar issues, like in CA with water shortages. We can generate more electricity than can ever be used on Earth. But we can't generate more water, or more oil, or more healthy atmosphere. Global climate change potential is a 'wild-card' in your discussion? Regarding growth, already today millions die from nutritional issues, so these things are already forcing zero or negative growth in those areas. However, humans like to reproduce, and uncontrolled population growth, might be the undoing of society. The obvious answer to your question above is we won't become extinct but there will be pain and suffering and casualties. No matter though...we're so stupid we'll probably annihilate ourselves from nuclear or chemical weapons...
