Manil Agarwal is the founder of Sustenable, a platform through which he aims to create a society of young global leaders, the leaders who would uphold sustainability as the core principle of life in hands with his maiden International Sustenable Youth Conference to be held in Ahmedabad, India, from (4th -7th November 2022). While pursuing his MSc in International Business at the University of Nottingham, UK, Manil studied Sustainability as an elective module and volunteered for various programs promoting sustainability.
Sustainable development has gained enormous popularity in the past few decades, becoming one of the essential aspects of the 21st century. Sustainability has not only encouraged legislative changes but also brought a positive outlook on individuals’ behaviour toward resource conservation, thus changing the nature of human socio-ecological relationships. Globally, there has been an increase in eco-friendly working methods, leading to the development of new institutions, technologies, and energy sources.
With a recent rise in public discourse regarding the environment and activism against its destruction, the public is turning to green consumerism, from changing their cars and eating habits to adopting sustainable lifestyles.
How is Sustainability contributing to the progressive environment?
Sustainability for a progressive environment necessitates that society conserves resources, protects ecosystems, reduces pollution, and encourages social equity. As a result, innovative sustainability initiatives are being implemented globally to focus on sustainable management and lessen reliance on natural resources. For instance, efforts are being made to preserve biodiversity and natural ecosystems by promoting non-polluting recycled alternatives that can reduce our dependence on plastics while fostering innovation, advancing the circular economy, and establishing new markets, especially in developing countries with weak waste management infrastructure. Organisations are also implementing initiatives to reduce carbon emissions through various sustainable initiatives, such as ensuring sustainable supply chains through improved seaport infrastructure, more environmentally friendly shipping practices, and increased trade openness.
People, especially youth, are now more open to participating in campaigns related to biodiversity and embracing sustainability in their communities to prioritise the use of renewable resources. As a result of the eco-awakening of the people, consumers are now demanding sustainable products in cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, fashion, and food.
How is the youth of today the torch bearer for a sustainable environment/living?
Youth are utilising the environmental events by launching awareness programs and sharing eco-friendly ideas with families and communities. They are increasingly advocating for, lobbying, and leading campaigns to adopt environmentally friendly practices and policies. Some of their movements are influential enough to reach policymakers and national leaders through local and international initiatives. In the face of rising poverty, the effects of climate change, and social inequity, today’s youth want to move forward with fresh ideas and contribute to the environment. They want to engage in tackling the most formidable economic, social, and environmental challenges by thinking globally and acting locally. For instance, youth are playing a crucial role in promoting “Life on Land,” a resolution to restore and conserve the ecosystem and life on earth.
The development of the blue and green economy, and the improvement of sustainable food systems, are keys to advancing a more environmentally conscious way of living whilst opening up global economic opportunities for the youth. The rising generation worldwide are assuming leadership roles as torchbearers of change and taking centre stage in initiatives toward global progress in an atmosphere of rekindled optimism and unanimity in their convictions.
The future outlook on how sustainability can benefit the ecosystem by empowering the youth
Educating young people about environmental issues is crucial to building their knowledge, awareness, skills, and values. Sustainable education enables them to develop innovative solutions for ecological issues, which benefits their personal and environmental well-being. Youth are addressing environmental crises through initiatives like increasing biodiversity by cultivating pollinator plants and bee gardens, making schools plastic-free, bringing attention to slow fashion and promoting swap shops, developing carbon calculator apps, etc. Enhancement of their local ecosystems and encouragement of pro-environmental behaviours aid the economy as well. Youth empowerment through education on sustainability as a core ethic, social innovation, and entrepreneurship has immense potential to address problems at the grass-roots level.