Breaking Through the Limits to Growth

This work examines the fundamental challenges posed by Earth’s finite resources and fragile ecosystems, as well as the broader constraints summarized by the concept of “limits to growth.” Drawing upon seminal studies such as The Limits to Growth (Meadows et al., 1972) and the “Planetary Boundaries” framework (Steffen et al., 2015), it highlights that continuous economic and demographic expansion cannot be sustained within a closed system of limited natural capital. Recognizing these constraints compels a reassessment of technological, economic, and scientific strategies aimed at achieving long-term sustainability. Central to overcoming these constraints is an interdisciplinary approach, integrating insights from materials science, biology, geology, planetary science, and artificial intelligence. This multifaceted perspective illuminates how cutting-edge technologies—ranging from AI-driven resource extraction on the Moon and Mars to bioregenerative life-support systems—can support the development of autonomous, sustainable ecosystems beyond Earth. Yet, these technical solutions alone are insufficient without ethical frameworks, equitable resource distribution, and strong international cooperation. Aligning space exploration and settlement with principles of planetary stewardship demands a shift from anthropocentric to biosphere- and cosmos-centric worldviews. By harmonizing scientific innovation, environmental ethics, and global collaboration, humanity can lay the groundwork for a sustainable presence both on Earth and in the wider Solar System. This integrated paradigm, rooted in interdisciplinary research and guided by principles of fairness and responsibility, paves the way for a new form of humanism prepared to meet the complex challenges of our expanding role in the universe. https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/breaking-through-limits-growth-serhii-kharchuk-sdxse/?trackingId=1Wgws+yeSrSJAi/zj8RWUg==