Socio-metabolic class conflicts in the Anthropocene

The Anthropocene epoch is characterized by an excessive use of natural resources and energy that drives the environmental destruction of the planet. However, large inequalities exist among different social groups that benefit to various degrees from the use of resources and energy, as well as among those suffering from the negative impacts of environmental destruction. In this paper, we systematically analyze these differences and discuss a social stratification theory based not only on differences in terms of possessions or social status, but also on differences in how these groups can control and benefit from the planetary material cycles and energy flows or suffer the consequences of environmental degradation. Referring to consumption data, we propose six global socio-metabolic classes and show distinctive patterns in the energy use of these classes. More research is needed to reveal differences in the use of natural resources essential for maintaining the biosphere integrity, such as land, water, nitrogen, and phosphorus. Targeted policy measures that address excessive appropriation of energy and natural resources are needed, as are expansions in infrastructure and institutional change that supports the wellbeing of humankind, and especially of the most marginalized classes.