2 Towards a Sustainable Future Earth


Although transformative change may sound abstract, far away and almost utopian, it should be remembered that all transformations start from small innovations and everyday actions at the local level. If we manage to recognize them and support them, many small actions can cause markets to change at local, regional and global levels. We only need to believe in them, support them, share them and let them grow, so that they can reach the rest of society. In this way young people can be part of the change needed to achieve a sustainable future.


2.6 Conclusion


The daily lives of many of us have been comfortable and convenient because of advances in technology, for example, automobiles, smartphones, the Internet and various gadgets that allow us to feel we have almost everything within our reach. However, modern lifestyles have also put the planet under pressure through excessive consumerism and a lack of a sense of urgency to look after the environment. For example, continued use of plastics has polluted the planet. Growing demand for new technology and innovations has resulted in the depletion of natural resources. This impacts every one of us.


The future is difficult for us to imagine. The purpose of this chapter has been to provide a glimpse of different possible futures, as projected by the sixth Global Environment Outlook (GEO-6) (UNEP 2019a). The world’s youth can contribute greatly to shaping a better, healthier future for humans and the planet.


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There is increased concern about climate change, air pollution and chemical pollution and how these problems continue to threaten our health and the environment. Young people desire a future with better opportunities for quality education, personal engagement, and participation in climate action while living in a more sustainable world.


The world’s youth are the future. Our choices and decisions will be the drivers of the changes needed in order to preserve our planet. Our contributions, as well as our leadership, are essential to build a more sustainable society. We can lead this transformational change.


Chapter 3 looks at some of the actions we can take.


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