2- ENGAGEMENT - Why and how to promote Sustainability (16-25 years)
Welcome to interactive presentation, created with Publuu. Enjoy the reading!
WHY AND HOW
TO PROMOTE
SUSTAINABILITY?
The three main views on sustainability are anthropocentrism, technocentrism, and ecocentrism. Each of
these views places emphasis on diferent factors and values, leading to diferent assumptions and
arguments.
ANTHROPOCENTRISM: This view places humans at the center of sustainability and assumes that the
preservation of human well-being is the ultimate goal of sustainability. It prioritizes economic growth,
human progress, and the needs and desires of humans. Arguments based on anthropocentrism often focus
on the benefts of sustainable practices for human societies, such as reduced pollution, increased efciency,
and improved quality of life.
TECHNOCENTRISM: This view places technology at the center of sustainability and assumes that
human ingenuity and technological advancements are the key to solving sustainability problems. It
prioritizes the development of new technologies, innovations, and market-based solutions. Arguments
based on technocentrism often focus on the potential for technology to solve sustainability challenges, such
as through the development of renewable energy sources and green technologies.
ECOCENTRISM: This view places the natural environment at the center of sustainability and assumes that
the preservation and protection of ecosystems and the natural world are the ultimate goals of sustainability.
It prioritizes the conservation of natural resources, biodiversity, and ecosystems. Arguments based on
ecocentrism often focus on the importance of preserving natural systems and the long-term impacts of
human activities on the environment.
UNDERSTANDING THE MAIN VIEWS ON SUSTAINABILITY:
ANTHROPOCENTRISM, TECHNOCENTRISM AND
ECOCENTRISM.
These
views
can
infuence
assumptions
and
arguments in diferent ways. For example, proponents
of anthropocentrism may argue that sustainable
practices are necessary to ensure economic growth
and human prosperity, while critics may argue that this
view neglects the long-term impacts of human
activities on the environment. Proponents of
technocentrism may argue that new technologies and
innovations will help solve sustainability challenges,
while critics may argue that this view neglects the
social and political factors that contribute to
sustainability problems. Proponents of ecocentrism
may argue that preserving natural systems and the
environment is essential for long-term sustainability,
while critics may argue that this view neglects the
importance of human well-being and economic
development.
“An ecocentric or strong sustainability perspective
challenges the mechanistic and exploitative ideas
of technocentrism while also entering into a
philosophical debate about the assumptions and
implications of the paradigm of science itself. An
ecocentric position is grounded in interdisciplinary,
holistic and non-dualistic ways of understanding
the environment. A technocentric or weak
sustainability
perspective
is
consistent
with
scientifc reductionism in which science and
technology can be used to discover the ‘laws’ of
nature, allowing greater manipulation and control
of the environment for the beneft of people
(Williams & Millington 2004). Nature is seen as only
having instrumental value and representing a
storehouse of resources to satisfy human wants and
needs. This position is anthropocentric, viewing
people as fundamentally separate from nature.”
ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND
SUSTAINABILITY:
SOME CRITICAL THOUGHTS
FINDING SOLUTIONS TO
DEVELOPMENT CHALLENGES IN
NATURE, BIODIVERSITY AND
ECOSYSTEM SERVICES
ENVIRONMENTAL VALUE
SYSTEMS
Environmental value systems infuence the way you
view environmental issues, what you feel we should
do about them, and what motivation you have for
taking or wanting to take action.
Nature is very important because it can help us solve
problems and make our world a better place. There
are many things we can learn from nature that can
help us create jobs, become stronger, and even help
with the problem of climate change.
WHY ECOCENTRISM IS THE KEY PATHWAY TO SUSTAINABILITY
What is ecocentrism?
Ecocentrism is a way of thinking that sees value in all parts of nature, not just humans. It considers the
environment as a whole, including living and non-living components, and believes that they all have
inherent value. This view is broader than anthropocentrism, which prioritizes human beings over other
organisms. It also includes biocentrism, which focuses on the value of all living things, and zoocentrism,
which emphasizes the value of animals.
Ecocentrism recognizes that life relies on the environment and geological processes to sustain it, and
therefore, it considers even the non-living parts of nature as having intrinsic value. This is why the term
"ecocentrism" is the most appropriate, as it encompasses all aspects of nature and its value, including
"geodiversity." Ecocentrism takes the widest view of the world and is the most inclusive of all worldviews
that value the non-human components of nature.
P L AY V I D E O
P L AY V I D E O
Socio-economic models are built upon various
values and principles, and their relation to
sustainability can vary depending on the specifc
model. However, some common values and
principles that underpin socio-economic models
and their relation to sustainability are:
Equity and Social Justice: Socio-economic models
prioritize
the
distribution
of
resources
and
opportunities fairly among individuals and groups.
The principle of equity and social justice seeks to
address the unequal distribution of wealth, power,
and resources within society and to promote
sustainable development that benefts all people,
including future generations.
Environmental
Stewardship:
Socio-economic
models recognize the importance of preserving
natural resources and protecting the environment
for
future
generations.
The
principle
of
environmental stewardship emphasizes responsible
management and use of resources in a way that
supports ecological balance and the health of the
planet.
Participatory Democracy: Socio-economic models
emphasize the active participation of individuals and
communities in decision-making processes that
afect their lives.
DIFFERENT SOCIO- ECONOMIC MODELS
VALUE SUSTAINABILITY DIFFERENTLY
REGENERATIVE CAPITALISM HOW UNIVERSAL PRINCIPLES AND PATTERNS WILL SHAPE
OUR NEW ECONOMY | WHAT COMES NEXT?
The way we currently run our economies in developed countries is not sustainable, which means it cannot
continue without causing serious problems. These problems are so bad that we have to ask ourselves if it's
ethical to keep going like this. Some people are even starting to question the whole economic system we use,
called Capitalism.
The principle of participatory democracy promotes
the
involvement
of
all
stakeholders
in
the
development and implementation of sustainable
policies and practices.
Economic Efciency: Socio-economic models aim to
maximize economic efciency by using resources in a
way that minimizes waste and reduces costs. The
principle of economic efciency seeks to ensure that
resources are used in a way that provides the greatest
beneft to society while minimizing negative
environmental impacts.
Innovation
and Technological
Development:
Socio-economic
models
value
innovation
and
technological development as a means of achieving
sustainable development. The principle of innovation
and technological development emphasizes the
development of new technologies and processes that
promote
sustainable
practices
and
reduce
environmental impacts.
Overall, these values and principles are important for
achieving sustainable development that balances
economic, social, and environmental concerns.
Socio-economic
models
that
prioritize
these
principles
can
help
to
promote
sustainable
development that benefts both current and future
generations.
Climate change and environmental degradation pose
signifcant threats to the well-being of Europe and the
world. To address these challenges, the European
Green Deal is designed to modernize and transform the
European Union into a highly efcient, resourceful, and
competitive economy. The plan is focused on achieving
three primary objectives:
• Eliminating net greenhouse gas emissions by 2050
to prevent further warming of the planet.
Decoupling economic growth from the use of
“Transforming the EU’s economy for a sustainable future.”
If we keep going in this direction, we will see more and
more young people without jobs, more poverty even
in the richest countries, and bigger gaps between rich
and poor both within countries and around the world.
We will also face environmental problems, especially
climate change, that will afect everyone, but most of
all those who are already struggling.
Many
people
who
care
about
sustainability
understand that we are in a crisis, and some
policymakers are starting to pay attention too.
However, most economists who make decisions about
how to run things are not yet ready to accept that
things need to change.
POLICY AREAS OF THE EU GREEN DEAL
P L AY V I D E O
A EUROPEAN GREEN DEAL STRIVING TO BE THE FIRST CLIMATE
NEUTRAL CONTINENT
natural
resources
to
ensure
sustainable
development.
• Ensuring that all people and places are
accounted for in this transformation, leaving no
one behind.
By achieving these objectives, the European Green
Deal will help protect the environment, promote
economic growth, and ensure that all individuals
and communities in Europe have access to a healthy
and prosperous future.
Values and principles are guiding beliefs and standards that infuence the way people think and behave. When
it comes to the environment, diferent values and principles can lead to diferent actions that can have varying
impacts.
For example, if someone values economic growth above all else, they may take actions that prioritize
short-term proft over long-term environmental sustainability. This could lead to activities such as overfshing,
clearcutting forests, or releasing harmful pollutants into the air and water.
On the other hand, if someone values environmental protection and sustainability, they may take actions that
prioritize the health and wellbeing of the planet over economic growth. This could involve initiatives such as
investing in renewable energy, protecting wildlife habitats, or implementing policies to reduce waste and
pollution.
Principles such as the precautionary principle, which states that action should be taken to prevent harm even
when there is uncertainty about the potential harm, can also infuence actions. This principle can lead to
actions such as banning the use of harmful chemicals or restricting the development of new technologies until
their environmental impact has been thoroughly studied.
Ultimately, the values and principles held by individuals, organizations, and governments can greatly infuence
the actions taken towards the environment, whether they are actions that damage, do not harm, restore, or
regenerate it.
Throughout history, we've seen that people's beliefs
and actions can change, sometimes for the better and
sometimes for the worse. But today, unlike in the past,
we have the chance, the knowledge, and the resources
to
intentionally
create
the
future
we
want.
Understanding and promoting sustainable values,
attitudes, and behaviors will be essential in the
ongoing conversation about what a good life looks like
for people and the planet.
THE IMPACT OF HUMAN ACTION ON THE
ENVIRONMENT CHANGES ACCORDING TO THE
VALUES THAT DRIVE IT
SUSTAINABILITY VALUES,
ATTITUDES, AND BEHAVIORS: A
REVIEW OF MULTINATIONAL AND
GLOBAL TRENDS
In order to protect the environment, businesses
should take a cautious approach. This means that
if there is a risk of serious or irreversible harm to
the environment, businesses should take action
even if they are not completely certain of the risk.
This approach involves evaluating the risk,
managing it, and communicating about it. When
there is a suspicion of harm, decision-makers
should take precautions and consider the level of
uncertainty based on scientifc evidence.
A LIFE WITHOUT CARBON |
ONE YOUNG WORLD AT
COP26
THE TEN PRINCIPLES OF THE
UN GLOBAL COMPACT:
PRINCIPLE 7 - ENVIRONMENT
Today is all about sustainable pleasures. So what
does that mean? It means: can we do the things
that we love without impacting the planet?
Kicking us of this morning we are asking the big
question: ‘a life without carbon - can we get
there?’
LITTER LESS CAMPAIGN
P L AY V I D E O
The Litter Less Campaign is a collaboration
between the Foundation for Environmental
Education and the Mars Wrigley Foundation.
Since 2011, this campaign has been teaching
students about the harmful efects of litter and
waste, and organizing community events to raise
awareness. Participants are encouraged to make
choices that reduce their environmental impact
and conserve resources.
P L AY V I D E O
GENERATIONAL AND CULTURAL FACTORS INFLUENCE
THE IMPORTANCE GIVEN TO SUSTAINABILITY
Diferent cultures and generations may have varying degrees of importance attached to sustainability
depending on their value systems. For example, some cultures may have a long-standing tradition of valuing
environmental stewardship and sustainability, while others may prioritize economic growth and development
over environmental concerns. Similarly, diferent generations may have diferent attitudes towards sustainability,
with younger generations often placing a higher emphasis on protecting the environment for future
generations.
Cultural values and beliefs shape how individuals view and respond to environmental issues. For instance, some
indigenous cultures have a deep respect for nature and view it as a living entity to be cared for and protected. On
the other hand, some modern Western societies prioritize economic growth and consumerism, often at the
expense of the environment.
Generational diferences may also infuence attitudes towards sustainability. Younger generations have grown
up with greater exposure to environmental issues, such as climate change, and have a greater awareness of the
need for sustainable practices. This is in contrast to older generations who may have diferent priorities or may
not have had the same exposure to environmental issues during their formative years.
Overall, understanding how diferent cultures and generations attach importance to sustainability is crucial in
developing efective strategies to address environmental issues and promote sustainable practices. It is
important to recognize and respect diverse perspectives and work towards fnding common ground to address
environmental challenges.
As we face the destructive impacts of climate change on our
economies, societies, and environment, with widespread
unemployment and inequality, and declining trust in inter-
national cooperation, it can be difcult to remain hopeful
about the future. However, there is one reason for optimism:
the younger generation is approaching these challenges in
a diferent way. The UN DESA’s World Youth Report provides
evidence that the next generation is more aware and
engaged in fnding solutions to these problems, which can
give us hope that by 2030, the world will be a better place
for everyone.
THE GENERATION THAT CAN CHANGE
THE WORLD - IF WE LET THEM
"GENERATION GRETA"
INSPIRING CHANGE IN YOUNGER
GENERATIONS
: “Greta Thunberg has become a well-known activist for
climate change. She gained recognition for protesting
outside of the Swedish Parliament during school days, in
order to push for the government to take a stronger stance in
fghting climate change.
However, not everyone agrees with her message. Jeremy
Clarkson, a former star of the show Top Gear, has criticized
Greta Thunberg and her student followers, claiming that
they are causing children to lose sleep over their concerns
about climate change.
Despite this, I believe that this fear and concern is necessary.
If previous generations have failed to efectively combat
environmental decay, it falls on younger generations to take
up the task. By feeling the weight of the responsibility, young
people may be compelled to make lifestyle changes early on,
in order to lead by example and cultivate a sustainable
mindset for the future.
Greta represents a new generation of activists who are
willing to make sacrifces and take action to address the faws
of previous generations.
P L AY V I D E O
MILLENNIALS ARE THE
FUTURE OF SUSTAINABILITY
Chelsea Ha is a proud millennial, aware of the
responsibilities her generation is taking on to
address climate change. In her talk, she shows how
millennials can contribute to the sustainability
movement and take care of the earth.
IN RESPONSE TO CLIMATE
CHANGE, CITIZENS IN ADVANCED
ECONOMIES ARE WILLING TO
ALTER HOW THEY LIVE AND WORK
“Young adults are more likely than older adults in
some countries to be willing to make lifestyle
changes to help reduce the efects of climate
change.”
P L AY V I D E O
THE MOST AND LEAST GREEN
COUNTRIES IN THE WORLD
“Being ‘green’ is a refection of how much a
country cares about preserving and restoring the
natural environment and its resources as well as
the health of its citizens. By comparing data from
multiple sources, we ranked a total of 69
countries in order of how green they are.”
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28