Assets Quote by Paul Hawken
“We can just as easily have an economy that is based on healing the future instead of stealing it. We can either create assets for the future or take the assets of the future. One is called restoration and the other exploitation. And whenever we exploit the earth we exploit people and cause untold suffering. Working for the earth is not a way to get rich, it is a way to be rich.”
About This Quote
Source Book: Regeneration: Ending the Climate Crisis in One Generation by Paul Hawken, 2021
A sustainable economy should invest in healing and restoring the planet, not exploiting it for short‑term profit.
In simple terms: Heal the planet instead of exploiting it.
Key Takeaway
Prioritize restoration over extraction.
Themes
sustainability
economics
environment
ethics
Mood
hopeful
determined
Type
ethical
inspirational
When to use this quote
- business strategy
- policy making
- community projects
- investment decisions
Key Concepts
Regeneration
circular economy
intergenerational equity
Questions to Reflect On
- How can you shift your work toward restoration?
- What incentives would make sustainable choices profitable?
A Different Perspective
Restoration may be slower and less immediately profitable than exploitation.
![“[When I die], I will decidedly not be regretting missed opportunities for a good time. My regrets will be more along the lines of a sad list of people hurt, people let down, assets wasted and advantages squandered.” quote by Anthony Bourdain](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/ba3/anthony-bourdain-649_advantage_when-i-die-i-will-decidedly-not-be-regre_24502.jpg)
