The concept of sustainable economics not only examines how to produce what for whom but also how irreplaceable resources can be adequately conserved. Efficient and equitable economic mechanisms are central components of the concept. Analyzing issues complicated by politics, ideology, and nationalism, sustainable economics scholars attempt to explore what works to make resource use more efficient, how people behave in relation to resources, and how a country's economic system can alter its prospects for survival. In this paper an answer for survival is sought through an examination of the performance of various countries throughout the world in agricultural efficiency/food security, energy efficiency, environmental pollution, and equity. Central to these topics is the changing reliance on the market, which should have significant human and environmental consequences. It is also contended that efficient food production and energy consumption make the best indicators of progress toward sustainable economics. It is concluded that many countries are reorienting their economies but that over-optimism about efficiency is not justified in view of the many problems that remain. Ten tables and 4 figures illustrate the topics in question. (TRS)