Long-term sustainability versus short-sighted gains

"Much of the knowledge needed to attain sustainable long-term solutions already exists. History has shown that market forces are a superb tool for the development and dissemination of innovative approaches and new technologies. On the other hand, what we haven't learned is how to get short-sighted economic and political systems to liberate the powers that could expedite the transition to long-term sustainable development. It's more a mental challenge than a matter of technology and finance," in Per Carstedt's opinion.

"The market forces could interpret local and global environmental threats as a need for new solutions with enormous potential financial rewards for those who can offer the right solutions. The political system has therefore a great opportunity, and responsibility, to set the rules of the game to motivate the market forces. Environmental purchasing policies, research funding, taxes, fees and legislation can be instruments to encourage the market to change course towards ecological sustainability. Wisely used, these instruments are the most important signals for rapid change. The challenge is therefore how quickly we can launch a positive spiral that transforms environmental threats to opportunities for everyone involved. In business and politics."

Service facilities are a part of the environmental threat posed by the transportation sector. GreenZone demonstrates it is possible to create service facilities that take natural values into account. A facility where the environmental impact is minimized throughout its lifecycle. GreenZone also shows that an environmentally sustainable society can also provide substantial financial benefits.