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Air Quote by Gaylord Nelson

“The wealth of the nation is its air, water, soil, forests, minerals, rivers, lakes, oceans, scenic beauty, wildlife habitats and biodiversity... that's all there is. That's the whole economy. That's where all the economic activity and jobs come from. These biological systems are the sustaining…” quote by Gaylord Nelson
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“The wealth of the nation is its air, water, soil, forests, minerals, rivers, lakes, oceans, scenic beauty, wildlife habitats and biodiversity... that's all there is. That's the whole economy. That's where all the economic activity and jobs come from. These biological systems are the sustaining wealth of the world.”

Gaylord Nelson

About This Quote

Source Speech: Earth Day Address, 1970

The true wealth of a country lies in its natural environment, which sustains all economic activity and jobs.

In simple terms: Nature is the real economy.

Key Takeaway

Protect ecosystems to secure prosperity.

Themes

environment economics stewardship

Mood

concerned optimistic

Type

advocacy educational

When to use this quote

  • policy making
  • business planning
  • education
  • community activism

Key Concepts

natural capital sustainability

Questions to Reflect On

  • What policies can integrate nature into GDP calculations?
  • How can businesses profit while preserving ecosystems?
A Different Perspective

Economic growth cannot ignore ecological limits.

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