SDG1: ‘A chain is only as strong as its weakest link’

There are many social, political, environmental, and economic reasons why the goal 'No poverty' stands first on the SDGs list. Any assessment of our global plans and strategies' future validity fails in the long term unless poverty gets taken out of the equation. The good news is that we are on the right path! During … Sigue leyendo SDG1: ‘A chain is only as strong as its weakest link’

SDG8: Learning organizations help to think more about work than about money

“…the day is not far off when the Economic Problem will take the back seat where it belongs, and that the arena of the heart and head will be occupied, or re-occupied, by our real problems—the problems of life and of human relations . . .” These words were not written recently by any de-growth, … Sigue leyendo SDG8: Learning organizations help to think more about work than about money

SDG11: Decentralization, digitalization, and symbiotic relationships

Cities are responsible for 60 to 80% of the global GHG emissions (European Commission). However, if properly and sustainably managed, cities can provide a unique opportunity to reduce these emissions. The point of departure in this endeavor should acknowledge that nearly ¾ of GHG emissions are a direct consequence of the choices we make. Among … Sigue leyendo SDG11: Decentralization, digitalization, and symbiotic relationships

SDG14: The Big Blue Marble (never)ending story

The ending scene from The Big Blue (Luc Besson’s movie from 1988) is profoundly carved into my memory and my senses. That deep circularity of its symbolism erases the duality between ending and beginning. It is a tribute to Poseidon, the ancient Greek god, ruler of the seas, who is often represented by a dolphin. … Sigue leyendo SDG14: The Big Blue Marble (never)ending story

SDG6: Water is life. Peak water. Peak life.

In 1956 science (Hubert) estimated that oil production in the United States would peak between 1965 and 1970. The science was right. In 1970, US oil production reached a maximum and began to decline (Gleick & Palaniappan, 2010). The term peak refers to the year when the maximum rate of extraction is reached, after which … Sigue leyendo SDG6: Water is life. Peak water. Peak life.

SDG9: From Catch 22 to catch me if you can

To boost the sustainable transition we need to build new infrastructures and industries. But, building more infrastructures and industries creates additional pressure and further accelerates climate change. So, how do we go about this Catch 22?     Sustainable Development Goal 9, which seeks to build resilient infrastructure, promote inclusive and sustainable industrialization, and foster innovation, … Sigue leyendo SDG9: From Catch 22 to catch me if you can

SDG16: To connect physically, psychologically, and spiritually while leaving a minimum carbon footprint behind

To succeed in the transition framed within the UN Sustainable Development Goals, sustainability needs to deal with the uncertainty that emerges from one of the most challenging questions it eventually encounters: 'What will humans do?' (Busch & Harris). No matter how good the governance or technological solutions being available, their success is eventually determined by … Sigue leyendo SDG16: To connect physically, psychologically, and spiritually while leaving a minimum carbon footprint behind

SDG3: Better emotional education instead of quick access to pills

Good health and well-being are connected through mental health which is becoming increasingly important in modern times. An important part of this goal has a lot to do with finding words that give answers to what? and to: why? The first one is relatively easy. We are all great experts when it comes to saying … Sigue leyendo SDG3: Better emotional education instead of quick access to pills