The power of personal victories
There’s a well-known saying that change begins at home, and when it comes to protecting our planet, this idea is more important than ever. If we are unable to foster environmental care within our own neighbourhoods, our aspirations for broader systemic reform may remain just that: aspirations. Every individual’s effort contributes to a collective momentum towards creating a more sustainable world. By seeking common ground and collaboratively building a "Tower of Sustainability," we can move beyond the historical failures symbolised by the Tower of Babel.
So, where do we begin?
The journey towards impactful change need not wait for sweeping policy reforms or corporate shifts. Instead, it beckons the question: What can 'I' do, 'NOW'? This inquiry challenges us to scrutinise our daily habits and choices with a critical eye. From reevaluating our consumption patterns in the face of fast fashion to choosing eco-friendly transportation options, there are many ways to embody the principles of sustainability in our everyday lives. Engaging with nature, learning from experts, and co-creating solutions are tangible steps towards embodying the change we wish to see.
I recently found myself captivated by a YouTube video showcasing the meticulous process of making bread in a remote Japanese bakery nestled within mountains. The video has no script or the usual hooks of digital content, but I kept watching for 40mins. Why? Because witnessing the entire process of labour and creation unfold instils a profound respect for nature’s offerings and the art of creation itself. This experience reminded me to be more mindful of the processes behind the products and services we consume daily.
In addition to consumption, how about ‘going digital’? Does it truly promise a better and more sustainable future? Perhaps the answer is not as straightforward as we might hope. In 2023 alone, the world generated a staggering 61.3 million metric tons of e-waste. This figure starkly highlights the environmental cost of our digital advancements. While the specific contribution of cloud computing infrastructure to this e-waste is not as frequently discussed, the reality remains that the physical backbone of our digital world—encompassing data centres, servers, network devices, and more—plays a significant role in the accumulation of e-waste. As we navigate this digital era, it’s important we remain mindful of the environmental footprint of our technological advancements and strive for sustainable practices that respect both nature and the processes that sustain our digital lives.
Breaking down the monumental task
The mission to make the world a better place is undeniably daunting. However, by breaking it down into actionable steps beginning with individual actions—whether as students, community members, business owners, or government officials—we make the challenge more manageable. Continuously asking ourselves what we can do in the present moment will pave the way for significant collective impact. As a traditional Chinese saying goes, ‘千里之行始于足下/A journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step.’ If you keep reading this blog until the end, what actions can YOU take, NOW? And more importantly, will you take them?
About me
As the Centre Manager at the Centre for Sustainable Business, I am privileged to work alongside a passionate team dedicated to bridging the gap between academia and industry. Our goal is to foster actionable solutions that drive meaningful change in business practices. This objective, however, requires a collaborative effort. We therefore invite you to join us on this journey. Together, let’s set off on a path of personal victories and systemic transformation, shaping a world that future generations will be proud to inherit.
About the Centre for Sustainable Business
The Centre for Sustainable Business is an inclusive and forward-thinking hub dedicated to addressing one of the most pressing questions in modern business: "How can businesses effectively transition to socially and environmentally sustainable practices?" With a strong commitment to inclusiveness, the Centre brings together a broad array of stakeholders - from academia, industry, public sector, and civil society - to drive meaningful changes. We believe that interdisciplinary research and collaboration are key to shaping a more sustainable and equitable business landscape.