As the idea of ​​sustainable development becomes more and more relevant in the political arena, the question remains whether our modern capitalist economies can preserve their most fundamental principle of maximization profits, while protecting the environment. So it is the purpose of this essay to examine this. Can we reach compromises that allow us to protect and conserve the environment without hindering development? Since the dissolution of the Soviet Union, the dominant economic system globally has been capitalism. Private ownership of the means of production, the creation of goods or services for profit in a market, as well as prices and wages are elements of capitalism (Tormey, 2004). This promotes a society in which the primary goal is individual economic gain, where levels of supply and demand determine the price of goods and services. Although capitalism has undoubtedly brought enormous economic benefits, these have come at a price and it has become clear that the planet cannot support current methods of economic growth. With the advent of climate change, increasing population and depletion of our non-renewable resources, the only solution is for us to look for ways to develop sustainably. As this chart shows, there is a direct correlation between economic prosperity and CO2 emissions. Considering that the most economically successful countries are the main culprits for environmental destruction, I believe it is now up to them to lead the way towards a sustainable future. Sustainable development as a theory was first defined in Brundtland's work. (also known as Our Common Future) in 1987. The report was the work of the United Nations...... middle of paper ......). “Examples of Projects, Programs and Initiatives - Transportation Planning and Traffic Management” http://archive.rec.org/REC/Programs/Sustainablecities/Transportation.html Accessed 04/10/2011 Chavis, Jason (2011) “Qu Is Environmental Risk Management? http://www.wisegeek.com/what-is-environmental-risk-management.html. Visited: 04/10/2011 RSC Environment, Health and Safety Committee Working Group (2008). “Environmental Risk Assessment” http://www.rsc.org/images/Environmental_Risk_Assessment_tcm18-122341.pdf. Accessed: 04/10/2011Shell Oil Company (2011) “Environment and Society” http://www.shell.com/home/content/environment_society/. Accessed: 04/10/2011Shell To Sea (2011) “Overview of the Corrib Gas Project” http://www.shelltosea.com/content/overview-corrib-gas-project. Visited: 10/14/2011Grubb, M. (July 2003). "The economics of the Kyoto Protocol".