Realising sustainable development with the information society — the holistic Double Gain-Link approach

Starting with a holistic analysis of the nature–human ecosystem, the importance of the new information-based economy for sustainability is elaborated. A major bottleneck in the present development is the availability of people who understand the functioning and essentials of the new economy. Closely linked to the availability of these ‘new key people’ is the necessity to revitalise and preserve ecosystems, even within cities. But favourable developments do not occur on their own. A new link is elaborated which would allow nature in a region to benefit proportionally to regional economic growth. This link becomes practical due to the new economy, which can use resources and land area much more effectively than established industries, and new information and communication technologies foster lifestyles which free land areas for other uses. Examples confirm that this link is a realistic possibility. The conclusions are based on integrated regional and urban projects, management consultation and systems science.