A durable future?

Being one of many who live with the experience of an almost constant time pressure, I read with great interest about a new book that takes a dive into the forces behind the high level of work and consumption, in individuals and society at large. It quotes among else research reports that put forth that steps towards lowered time pressure might be the only way to save the planet! Increasing our leisure time through a 25% shortening of our work hours would slow down our life through freezing the material consumption on the current level. It is argued that more relaxed people will chose slower transports, through, for example, bikes ad trains instead of cars and planes. Lowering the consumption level would in turn lead to a slow down of the climate and environmental problems which right now is hitting the cieling!

Isn´t that just wonderful? Then we all would have more time being creative and social, and it would not cost us anything else than escaping the consumption rat race!!! So, if future increased effectiveness would be used to increase leisure time in stead of going faster and consuming more, maybe everyone would be winners of a life with more well-being and meaning! Is it that simple? :o)

This pic was taken by the site of a big refuse and recycling establishment, where I was early this morning to leave some leftover furniture!