In which SSP scenario does economic growth occur at a slower pace than environmental decline?

The scenario where economic growth occurs at a slower pace than environmental decline is encapsulated within SSP3. This scenario, often referred to as the "Regional Rivalry" pathway, suggests a world where countries prioritize their national interests, leading to conflict and fragmentation. As a result, economic growth tends to lag due to high levels of regional conflict, limited international cooperation, and a focus on local or national agendas rather than global environmental sustainability.

In this scenario, environmental issues are exacerbated as resources are exploited without consideration for long-term sustainability. The result is a setting where even if some economic activity occurs, it is overshadowed by significant environmental challenges and degradation, thus highlighting that the rate of environmental decline outpaces any economic benefits accrued.

In contrast, SSP1 describes a world focused on sustainability, with economic growth aligned with environmental protection; SSP2 provides a mixed scenario where moderate economic growth coincides with gradual environmental improvement; and SSP5 is characterized by rapid growth fueled by fossil resources, often leading to significant environmental challenges, but not primarily focused on decay outpacing growth.