April 28 - As a freshman in college I read the book “Limits to Growth” which warned that the world was on an unsustainable path of population and economic growth. Having grown up in a comfortable and well-off suburb in San Diego, I was shocked to consider that a finite supply of natural resources and the human impact on our natural environment might limit our future economic well being. I remember having some animated, late-night discussions with classmates on whether changes to our lifestyles were necessary. When I came to Japan as a college junior two years later, I remember hearing that this book was a best-seller in Japan too.

Last week, I was privileged to meet one of the authors of that book, Dr. Dennis Meadows. He visited Japan to accept the Japan Prize for his contributions to science.

Dr. Meadows does not fit the stereotype of a world famous scientist. This avuncular gentleman was interested in a broad range of topics including Japanese culture and food, and was extremely modest about his accomplishments. He clearly has a passion for his work educating the world about how we can develop our economies and meet the needs of our people in a way that respects nature and the capacity of our planet. In our discussions about climate change he told me that that we have lost a lot of time over the past thirty years. Rather than complain about the mistakes of the past, he said we should accept the situation as it is and begin to act based on science.

Thirty-five years ago Dr. Meadows was unafraid to challenge conventional wisdom even at a time when his ideas were unpopular. That day, I felt privileged for the opportunity to converse with such a great man and was grateful to the Science and Technology Foundation of Japan for bestowing upon Dr. Meadows this wonderful recognition of his lifetime accomplishments.

Until next time,

Jim