How have historical economic policies influenced resource management and its environmental impact across different societies?

Historical economic policies have shaped how societies manage their resources and the environment in various ways. For instance, during the Industrial Revolution, many countries focused on rapid industrial growth, often prioritizing economic gain over environmental health. This led to the exploitation of natural resources like coal and timber, resulting in pollution and deforestation. A clear example is how factories in Britain released smoke and waste into rivers, harming ecosystems and public health. As societies learned from these impacts, some began to adopt more sustainable policies, showing how economic choices can influence both resource management and environmental outcomes.