Question

In the early 1990s, Miguel Sanchez, a subsistence farmer in Costa Rica, was offered $\mathrm{\$}600,000$ by a hotel developer for a piece of land that he and his family had been using sustainably for many years. An area under rapid development surrounded the land, which contained an old-growth rain forest and a black sand beach. Sanchez refused the offer. Explain how Sanchez's decision was an application of one of the social science principles of sustainability. What would you have done if you were " Sanchez? Explain.

Short answer

Sanchez applied the principle of environmental sustainability by preserving natural resources for future generations. I would likely prioritize ecological preservation too.

Step-by-step solution

Introduction to Social Science Principles of Sustainability

Social science principles of sustainability involve managing resources in a way that meets current needs without compromising future generations' ability to meet their needs. This often includes preserving biodiversity and natural resources, maintaining cultural heritage, and ensuring social and economic equity.

Understanding the Context of Sanchez’s Decision

Miguel Sanchez's land contains significant natural resources, such as an old-growth rainforest and a black sand beach, both of which could be invaluable for biodiversity and ecological balance. Development could lead to ecological damage and loss of these resources.

Identifying the Principle of Sustainability Applied

Sanchez's decision not to sell reflects the principle of environmental sustainability. By refusing the development offer, he chooses to maintain the ecological integrity and biodiversity of the land, prioritizing long-term ecological health over immediate financial gain.

Evaluating Personal Decision if in Sanchez's Position

If I were in Sanchez's position, my decision would consider the impact on the environment, local communities, and future generations. Selling might bring financial benefit but could lead to ecological degradation and loss of cultural heritage, which align with sustainability principles.

Key concepts

Social Science Principles of Sustainability

Social science principles of sustainability aim to create a balance between fulfilling present needs and preserving resources for future generations. The core idea is to manage resources in a way that does not jeopardize the prospects of those who come after us.
For Miguel Sanchez, choosing to manage his land sustainably meant protecting the old-growth rainforest and the unique black sand beach on his property. This approach aligns with several key aspects of sustainability:

• Preserving biodiversity by keeping the rainforest intact, supporting countless species, and maintaining ecological balance.
• Sustaining cultural heritage by retaining natural landscapes that hold significance for current and future local communities.
• Ensuring social equity by valuing long-term ecosystem health over short-term economic profit.

Sanchez’s commitment to these principles demonstrates a dedication to lasting ecological integrity and a thoughtful approach to resource management.

Biodiversity

Biodiversity refers to the variety of life forms found in different ecosystems and environments. It is essential for maintaining ecological balance and resilience against environmental changes.
The rainforest on Sanchez’s land is rich in biodiversity. This biodiversity contributes to:

• Ecosystem stability, as different species have roles that support the whole system.
• Nutrient cycling, which helps maintain soil health and supports plant growth.
• Climate regulation, as trees and plants absorb carbon dioxide, a key greenhouse gas.

Selling the land for development would likely lead to habitat destruction, causing harm or even leading to the extinction of some species.
By refusing to sell, Sanchez preserved not only the immediate habitats but also safeguarded the broader ecological services that a biodiverse environment provides to both local and global communities.

Natural Resource Management

Natural resource management involves managing natural assets like land, water, and biodiversity to sustain these resources for the long-term benefit of humans and the environment.
Sanchez’s decision to refuse the lucrative offer reflects effective natural resource management.
He focused on the long-term impacts of preserving the land rather than just the short-term financial gains from selling it.

• His land management prioritized maintaining ecological processes, like those supported by the rainforest.
• This action ensured that resources like clean air, fresh water, and fertile soil would remain available both now and for future generations.

Effective natural resource management is evident in Sanchez's belief that the health and sustainability of natural systems are foundational to human well-being and survival.
His decision underscores the importance of valuing natural resources in their native state, balancing economic development with ecological preservation.