Prioritize the well-being of humans and nature above the economy
Most industries nowadays are economically driven creating a sort of monopoly where everyone works for their own benefit. We have never been exposed to so many materialistic goods. Our way of life develops a notion of consumerism in every person.
What I want to say to governments is that they should look at the long-term effects of this in their planning and be ready to take some financial losses when it is in the best interest of humanity and the environment. For example, by reducing / banning plastic completely or seriously promoting the concept of reusable goods. How can you expect the use of plastic to drop when most of our goods are wrapped in that material?
The lifestyle driven by our current economic values leads to the overproduction of food and other materials, food waste, deforestation and the destruction of natural habitats. Earlier this week, the World Wildlife Fund reported that the diversity of wildlife species has fallen by more than two thirds in less than 50 years. This is a “catastrophic decline”. Around 1 m species are endangered, facing extinction. Nature is being destroyed by our human actions.
Nature is not a privilege, it is our ally. We depend on it for our wellbeing and protecting it is in our own interests. Conserving nature and stopping the process of extinction and destruction which is currently happening requires a major shift in the perception of how we consume foods and goods. It also requires governments to make the environmental impact of their actions a priority. Governments must step up to the challenge.
Our economy is a human construct, but our planet is a real, tangible thing that can be physically destroyed.
Make the SDGs a key part of school curricula
Many countries tend to neglect educating children and youth about the Sustainable Development Goals. They aren’t always a priority in school curricula. However, I believe that through the incorporation of the Sustainable Development Goals in the education system - we are giving young people some of the most powerful tools to improve the world: knowledge as well as choice.
The SDGs should not be imposed on students – creating resentment. Rather, it is important to put the SDGs into school curriculum as part of critical thinking, debate and discussions, so young people are aware of vital global issues and can make well thought-out decisions based on reliable information. As a result, a new generation can be created – a generation who turns potential indifference into action.