The Club of Rome

Have you ever heard about The Club of Rome? It is an NGO founded in 1968 with the farsighted objective of facing global challenges pertaining to economic, environmental, political and social areas. The idea was developed by an Italian entrepreneur, Aurelio Peccei, and the Scottish scientist Alexander King. Although their different backgrounds, they shared the same interest in the long-term future of humanity and the planet. 

Villa Faresina, the birthplace of the Club of Rome

Through its 100 members, all employed in different sectors, the club can holistically examine the problems of the 21st century. Indeed, what makes the club so efficient in facing global challenges is its vast portfolio of experts, who can use their skill and expertise to address specific topics.

In 1972 the club published its first report, “The limit to Growth”, with the financial support of the group Volkswagen Foundation. The report pointed out a question that is still extremely valuable today, “Can planet earth still be saved or is it too late?”. It was one of the first reports which used computer simulation to study the possible effect of population growth, developing different scenarios and possibilities. The publication was successful and brought revolutionary results. Million of copies were sold and, although it led to some controversial judgements, it also shed light on an argument that was still unexplored: sustainable growth. “Limit to Growth” became the endorsement of many environmental movements of that time.

Over time, the non-profit organization has published several reports and scientific analysis which strive for increasing individuals’ awareness towards civic duties and worldwide dilemmas. The aim of the club consists of helping its audience to better understand major global and interrelated issues, proposing concrete solutions and policies. In 2013 the Club of Rome published “2052: 2052: A Global Forecast for the Next Forty Years”, a report which focused on the foreseeable future. The report forecasts that the human population will more and more prefer to live in cities, rather than rural areas, causing agglomeration in the metropolis. Moreover, it also warns us about the need for advancing solutions to overcome the increasing inequality issues that will arise over the following years.