world consumption has expanded at an unprecedented pace over the 20th century,with privat and public consumption expenditures reaching $24 trillion in 1998,twice the level of 1975 and six time that of 1950. in 1900 real consumption expenditure was barely $15 trillion. the benefits of this consumption have spread far and wide. more people are better fed and housed than ever before. living standards have rise to enable hundreds of millions to enjoy housing with hot water and cold, warmth and electricity, transport to and from work- with timefor leisure and sports,vacations and other activities beyond anything imagined at the start of this century. how do these achievements relate to human development? consumption is clearly an essential means, but the links are not automatic. consumption clearly contributes to human development when it enlarges the capabilities and enriches the lives of people without adversely affecting the well-being of others it clearly contributes when it encourages lively, creative individuals and communities. but the links are often broken, and when they are consumption patterns and trends are inimical to human development. today's consumption is undermining the environmental resource base. it is exacerbating inequalities.