Muhammad Shafiullah
By training, I am an economist; and it so happens, that in the discipline I find source of intellectual fervor. The concept of alocation of precious resources to satisfy the seemingly limitless inquisitiveness that all human beings are expected to encounter in her own life – remains a valuable element for those who reflect on the virtues of the science of economics. The opportunity for introspection matters only if the existence of a free and competitive market is guaranteed. Regardless of whether or not that condition is present, is a separate and perhaps much deeper aspect than ordinary minds can dig through.
Even before I made up my mind to study economics, I was perennially fascinated, albeit a guarded one by the within the choice of my discipline. However, I was able to see the uncontrollable appetite for natural resources; and how the underlying fragility lies at the heat of over exploitation, something likely to cause eventual resource depletion thereby bringing about ineffable misery to mankind. Or even threat the vey sustainability of species!
After commencing my undergraduate studies in economics, I realised that a sizable cohort of likeminded professionals and experts exist who are equally, if not more, concerned about the destiny of the humanity. They even have expressed substantial degree of apprehension as I am. The disquiet surrounds the insatiable hunger for profit, notwithstanding how it can be reaped. These people are eager to survive at the expense of others by using resources that are so critical for existence of flora and fauna. Without these, the world has only one way to go – the road to destruction and self-annihilation. This is the most likely scenario if we ignore the environment for greed and profit.
Preservation and protection of the environment and the natural resources is indispensable for the survival of the earth and for achieving a sustainable and equitable socio-economic prosperity. This human welfare centric approach inspired me to pursue the PhD degree in Economics with focus on environment and natural resources. I continue to be passionate about gaining good understanding of the nexus of environment-led economics. Interestedly, I devoted most of my research time and efforts towards understanding this ever-evolving phenomenon. I believe that the environment and economy are not mutually exclusive. Humanity need not sacrifice one for the other. As an (environmental and natural resource) economist, I have taken a solemn oath to educate and inform others in this respect, in an effort to protect and preserve our surroundings for a sustainable and enjoyable future for global citizens for the prosperity economic well-being bring. Afterall, that is what good economics is all about.