Justice, Posterity, and the Environment

In rich countries, environmental problems are seen as problems of prosperity; in poor countries, they are seen as problems of poverty. Lack of clean drinking water and insufficient sanitation affect the here and now, whereas environmental problems in rich countries seem more likely to harm posterity. This book addresses these issues, arguing that we have moral obligations to take account of the interests of future generations and that our main obligation is to bequeath to them a more decent society in which there is greater respect for basic human rights.