272
C. Trifanov et al.
in relation to the impact on the structure, the quality, the productive and supporting
capacity of the foundations that support and feed them, can be achieved in a coherent
and useful form for adaptive management using the ecological balance quantification
process.
At the beginning of the century and the millennium, the industrialized civilization
reached the level of globalization, having at their disposal the huge powers of science
and technology, but still faces very serious problems. Adapted to the situation, but
preserving its dramatic character, Hamlet’s words fit the moment in the form of “to be
or not to be”. Salvation can still only be possible through sustainable development.
This is unanimously considered as the only “safety exit” to avoid a near collapse
by interrupting the processes of self-destruction and bypassing the sad destiny of all
previous civilizations after long periods of amazing progress. Of course, mankind is
threatened by many dangers (pandemics, meteorites, earthquakes, volcano eruptions,
nuclear accidents etc.), but those that result from environmental degradation and
depletion of resources are the most important, being extended to the entire planet
and virtually irreversible.
The concept of sustainable development forsakes the struggle with nature in
exchange for its friendship, seeking to halt any process susceptible to prejudice
the future generations and to repair everything that is possible. It is a solidarity manifestation beyond the limits of life, proof of the maturity of our civilization in the era
of globalization and extraterrestrial searches. Rapid profound changes are needed in
the spheres of industrial, economic, educational, cultural, administrative, political,
science and technology activities, with a decisive role. On this road, above all, there
is a need for another way of thinking and other attitudes in the spirit of “thinking
globally, acting locally”. Everything needs to be done quickly, on the go. They must
learn both the children and mature people not to be exposed and become, from one
day to another, incompatible with the requirements of the place where they work or,
worst of all, suffer from “outperformed manager syndrome” that blocks and sickens
an entire sector, leading him to failure.
From the sphere of principles, sustainable development must materialize in actions
with effects in many areas, and regarding reducing energy consumption. For this,
engineers have great responsibilities. Although scientific research can still bring
important results in reconsideration of economic activities, although the technological solutions that can be applied immediately, exist and should be introduced without
delay, with government support.
In summary, the following conclusions can be retained:
• This is the beginning of the transition towards sustainable development, which
is urgently needed, and the necessary transformations must go into all sectors of
activity, starting with the energy and education of the population;
• The necessary changes must be made during the current generation. Otherwise it
will be too late!
• Often, benefits do not only occur where investments are required. That is why
the state and international structures need to be substantially involved through
legislation, economical mechanism and financial support.
C. Trifanov et al.
in relation to the impact on the structure, the quality, the productive and supporting
capacity of the foundations that support and feed them, can be achieved in a coherent
and useful form for adaptive management using the ecological balance quantification
process.
At the beginning of the century and the millennium, the industrialized civilization
reached the level of globalization, having at their disposal the huge powers of science
and technology, but still faces very serious problems. Adapted to the situation, but
preserving its dramatic character, Hamlet’s words fit the moment in the form of “to be
or not to be”. Salvation can still only be possible through sustainable development.
This is unanimously considered as the only “safety exit” to avoid a near collapse
by interrupting the processes of self-destruction and bypassing the sad destiny of all
previous civilizations after long periods of amazing progress. Of course, mankind is
threatened by many dangers (pandemics, meteorites, earthquakes, volcano eruptions,
nuclear accidents etc.), but those that result from environmental degradation and
depletion of resources are the most important, being extended to the entire planet
and virtually irreversible.
The concept of sustainable development forsakes the struggle with nature in
exchange for its friendship, seeking to halt any process susceptible to prejudice
the future generations and to repair everything that is possible. It is a solidarity manifestation beyond the limits of life, proof of the maturity of our civilization in the era
of globalization and extraterrestrial searches. Rapid profound changes are needed in
the spheres of industrial, economic, educational, cultural, administrative, political,
science and technology activities, with a decisive role. On this road, above all, there
is a need for another way of thinking and other attitudes in the spirit of “thinking
globally, acting locally”. Everything needs to be done quickly, on the go. They must
learn both the children and mature people not to be exposed and become, from one
day to another, incompatible with the requirements of the place where they work or,
worst of all, suffer from “outperformed manager syndrome” that blocks and sickens
an entire sector, leading him to failure.
From the sphere of principles, sustainable development must materialize in actions
with effects in many areas, and regarding reducing energy consumption. For this,
engineers have great responsibilities. Although scientific research can still bring
important results in reconsideration of economic activities, although the technological solutions that can be applied immediately, exist and should be introduced without
delay, with government support.
In summary, the following conclusions can be retained:
• This is the beginning of the transition towards sustainable development, which
is urgently needed, and the necessary transformations must go into all sectors of
activity, starting with the energy and education of the population;
• The necessary changes must be made during the current generation. Otherwise it
will be too late!
• Often, benefits do not only occur where investments are required. That is why
the state and international structures need to be substantially involved through
legislation, economical mechanism and financial support.