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