Economic Damage of Environmental Destruction - Summary

Economic Damage of Environmental Destruction - Summary

In 2008, the economic damage caused by environmental destruction amounted to approximately $660 billion (11% of global GDP). Deforestation, water and air pollution, and other factors have led to the degradation of ecosystem services. The United Nations Environment Program (UNEP) has warned that damage will quadruple by 2050 unless action is taken.

By the 2020s, the damage will exceed $10 trillion (13% of global GDP), with urbanization, especially in Asia, exacerbating the impact. In Japan, plastic waste in Tokyo Bay and heavy metal pollution in Kasumigaura, Ibaraki Prefecture, have become problems. Toyota Motor Corporation and Sumitomo Chemical are working to decarbonize and promote bioplastics, while the EU is aiming to reduce greenhouse gas emissions based on the "Green Deal. International collaboration and proactive corporate action are essential to realize a sustainable society.