Abstract

Global sustainability is defined as a problem in a multi-dimensional state space where it presents as feasible region. The state of the global environment is controlled to stay within this feasible region through a Burden Added Tax (BAT). In a perfect market, BAT will assure most efficient use of environmental resources. However, it will not reduce, but rather exacerbate existing inequities. Analysis as a purposeful system leads to the Global Equitable Burden Added Tax (GEBAT), which assures an ethically sound and fair distribution of rights to issue environmental burdens to all states in proportion to their population. It defines equalization payments for over- and underuse of burdens. Within this framework every sovereign nation is free to manage environmental burdens as they choose. GEBAT can serve as the basis for global sustainability into an indefinite future. Technical details of implementation are discussed. Since GEBAT levels the playing field between developed and developing countries, any need for foreign aid is obviated.