Global demand for natural resources is increasing. Not only industrialized countries, but also newly industrializing countries such as Brazil, China, India, Mexico and South Africa increase the pressure on energy sources, metal ores, water and foodstuffs. Record prices on commodity markets and intensified competition for access to raw materials are the result; the fear of dependence and scarcity is growing: The world is in resources fever.

Parallel to the fever curve for resource demand, adverse effects on the environment and climate as well as – a direct result – social and political tensions are sharply increasing. It is therefore time to grasp the new "resources debate" as an opportunity for more sustainable use of resources.