To Nate Hagens, 'exponential growth' is the rapid increase of a quantity by a consistent percentage over consistent time intervals, creating a doubling effect within predictable periods. This phenomenon is often misunderstood in its profound implications; it deceptively appears manageable in the short-term but soon escalates beyond control, permeating natural, economic, and societal realms. Hagens emphasizes that while it might spark short-lived gains, exponential growth is inherently unsustainable due to finite resource constraints and ecological boundaries. He illustrates it through relatable metaphors, often invoking the image of a lily pond doubling in coverage each day, deceptively consuming half the space on the penultimate day. Recognizing and adapting to this growth dynamic is crucial in transitioning to a more sustainable civilization that respects the limits of our finite planet.

See also: population growth, economic growth, renewable energy, carbon pulse