Sustainability is defined by the United Nations as “development that meets the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs.” As a society, we have been focused on innovation and progress to make life more convenient and efficient – mostly in developed countries. That progress has come, intentionally or unintentionally, to the detriment of the environment by the exploitation of resources of developing countries – human or natural.
We all realize this when we stop and think about it, but what can we do? I voted, I contribute (d) to organizations fighting the good fight, I signed petitions, I educated my kids. That’s how I thought I was making a difference, but when I look at the world now, I cannot say honestly that this is enough. It isn’t. We need more. We need to be consumer activists – vote with what we consume. We have been living in a society that tells us the more we have, the more valuable we are and until we change this basic concept, change will come at a much slower pace than we need.
Sustainability is the development that meets the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs.
That’s why I believe in the power of businesses. The more aware and purposeful businesses are, the more impact we will have. We will not be perfect. It’s a learning process and we all have to be in it together – able to recognize mistakes and adjust fast. It’s more important than ever.
I do not pretend to be an expert in sustainability – I am not, yet. We all have to start somewhere, right?
Let’s be rebels for good, rebels for change, together! Will you join us?
