Environmental Sustainability and the Moral Economy: A Holistic Approach to Development

The 21st century is characterized by a paradox: unprecedented economic growth coupled with equally unprecedented ecological decline and social disparity. The dominant global development model, driven by industrial capitalism and free-market policies, prioritizes short-term economic gains and GDP growth at the cost of long-term ecological stability and social equity. Environmental degradation, climate change, and resource depletion continue to threaten planetary health, while inequality widens, disproportionately affecting vulnerable populations. In contrast, the moral economy presents an alternative ethical framework grounded in fairness, social justice, community welfare, and ecological stewardship. First articulated by E.P. Thompson and expanded by James C. Scott, the concept emphasizes mutual obligations and values over profit maximization. This paper seeks to explore how the integration of environmental sustainability with the moral economy can offer a more just and resilient pathway for global development. It aims to demonstrate that sustainable environmental practices, when guided by moral economic values, can lead to a holistic and inclusive model of development that honors both people and the planet.