The relationships between earth's resources and the human future and the challenges of maintaining a sustainable environment were probed at an international conference sponsored by the World Resources Institute. A synthesis of the conference's reports, perspectives, and plans for action are presented in this document. The position supported by the conference participants is summarized in a general statement that calls for action and changes in meeting environmental challenges. An agenda for action is outlined. Recommendations for policies and initiatives are stated for specific environmental areas. These include: (l) population, poverty, and development; (2) urban environment; (3) fresh water; (4) biological diversity; (5) tropical forests; (6) agricultural land; (7) living marine resources; (8) energy; (9) non-fuel minerals; (l0) atmosphere and climate; (ll) international assistance; (12) capabilities assessment; and (13) business, science, and citizens. (ML)