People assume that a country cannot be simultaneously good in terms of economic growth and also social development while many do not agree with this.
A country development is dependent on the government policies being established by the laws of the country. In a situation whereby the policies are well driven and always being decided for the benefit of the masses, it tends to bring about economic increase. For example, if there is constant electricity, this will in turn bring about productivity in industries. In a case of social amenities like good road, this will also lead to improved standard of living of the people of a particular community.
On the other hand, where the laws tend not to be for the masses or tend to favour a faction of the economy, it will not yield to economic growth. For example, if the law covers the richer as against poor in the economy, it does not give room for social development.
In my opinion, I agree that it is possible for a country to be economically progressive and environmental friendly simultaneously, in the sense that the growth of a country, brings about good basic amenities and recreational centres, sustainable lifestyles etc.