“It’s about awakening to the responsibility we all bear in shaping a more sustainable and equitable future.”
Reflecting on our class discussion on sustainable development and the impactful TED Talk by Greta Thunberg entitled, “The Disarming Case to Act Right Now on Climate Change”, I find myself standing at the crossroads of awareness and action. Greta’s powerful statement, “The climate crisis has already been solved. We already have all the facts and solutions … all we have to do is to wake up and change.”
In our discussion, we looked into the definition of sustainable development as meeting the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their needs. Hans Sy of SM emphasized that sustainability is not merely an option for businesses but an imperative decision. The numerous challenges facing our world today – poverty, inequality, global health risks, natural disasters, environmental degradation, freshwater scarcity, and climate change – highlight the urgent need to embrace sustainable practices. The urgency of the climate crisis cannot be overstated, and it is upon us to act now.
Greta Thunberg’s TED Talk provided a stark reality check, emphasizing the need for immediate and tangible actions to combat climate change. Her call to start taking preventable actions and holding rich countries accountable for reducing emissions resonated deeply with me. The lack of awareness about environmental injustices, coupled with the indifference of those who are aware, has fueled my sense of responsibility. One of the key takeaways from the class discussion was the 12 sustainability mindset principles, categorized into four quadrants: Ecological Worldview, Systems Perspective, Emotional Intelligence, and Spiritual Intelligence. Reflecting on Greta’s message, I see a harmonious alignment with these principles, guiding personal and collective action.
Greta’s plea for awareness and responsibility echoes the principles of ecological encompassing—understanding the interconnectedness between nature and humanity. Her emphasis on the lack of policies and restrictions for industries aligns with the protective or restorative action under the ecological quadrant, highlighting the competency needed to drive change. In addition, Greta’s call for a shift in consumption, particularly reducing meat and dairy consumption, aligns with the sustainability mindset principles of emotional intelligence. It emphasizes the importance of reflection, self-awareness, and creative innovation in fostering a sustainable lifestyle.
In my daily life, I have already taken steps like choosing sustainable products, practicing responsible consumption, which includes upcycling clothes, retaining a functional phone instead of immediately replacing it, and cultivating a mini garden at home.
Building on these practices, I pledge to deepen my ecoliteracy by continuously seeking knowledge and understanding of sustainable practices. I will explore new ways to minimize my impact on the environment, making informed choices that align with sustainability principles. I pledge to continue practicing conscious consumerism that involves scrutinizing the products I buy, opting for sustainable alternatives.
Greta’s emphasis on the role of individuals in effecting change aligns with the principle of long-term thinking within the Systems perspective. I recognize the need to adopt a holistic view of sustainability, understanding that my choices today impact the well-being of future generations. This awareness motivates me to support and vote for leaders who prioritize environmental issues and advocate for sustainable policies.
The concept of Ikigai further resonates with Thunberg’s message. Finding one’s purpose at the intersection of passion, skills, societal needs, and the environment is crucial in the context of climate action. Thunberg’s dedication to her cause shows the impact individuals can make when they align their purpose with the world’s pressing needs.
Moreover, the discussions on sustainable development and the enlightening TED Talk by Greta Thunberg have changed my perspective on climate change. It has inspired a commitment to actively contribute to the solutions rather than being a passive observer. I am motivated to vote for leaders who prioritize climate action, advocate for environmental justice, and actively participate in movements and organizations dedicated to sustainability.
Reflecting on Thunberg’s TED Talk has deepened my understanding of the urgency of climate action and ignited a personal commitment to live more sustainably and inspire others to do the same. It’s not just about waking up to the reality of the climate crisis; it’s about awakening to the responsibility we all bear in shaping a more sustainable and equitable future.
The author is an MBA student at the Ramon V. Del Rosario College of Business of De La Salle University. She wrote this reflection paper for her class on Sustainable Business. She can be reached at christine_coleen_dalit@dlsu.edu.ph.
The views expressed above are the author’s and do not necessarily reflect the official position of DLSU, its faculty, and its administrators.
