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Abstract
The purpose of this paper is to provide an overview of leading global mega forces and their importance to the future of natural resource decisionmaking, policy development, and operation. Global mega forces are defined as a combination of major trends, preferences, and probabilities that come together to produce the potential for future high-impact outcomes. These forces are examined in terms of their possible, probable, and preferable future impacts on natural resources. The paper is presented in two stages. First, it identifies seven commonly cited categories of existing, emerging, and projected global mega forces for direction and implications. Next, two technological mega forces with potential for high impact—networked sensoractuator technologies and electronic performanceware systems—are identified and examined in detail.
Parent Publication
Citation
Kubik, George H. 2012. Global mega forces: Implications for the future of natural resources. In: Bengston, David N., comp. 2012. Environmental futures research: experiences, approaches, and opportunities. Gen. Tech. Rep. NRS-P-107. Newtown Square, PA: U.S. Department of Agriculture, Forest Service, Northern Research Station: 25-36.
