Sustainability

My own definition: Sustainable development is development that does not compromise future generation’s possibilities to enjoy clean environment, different cultures and steady economics.

I have to confess that I have just recently read a few definitions to sustainable development as a part of my other studies.

Defined definition: One should treat others as one would like others to treat oneself.

a. Please explain briefly your own interest in Sustainable Development.

Well, to me environmental values are easiest to understand. The cycle is much more demanding when we are talking about economics or social not to even mention the cultural aspects.

In my life sustainability is present in some parts of it. In a supermarket I almost always prefer organic products although they cost a lot more. I do that because I’m afraid of the chemicals used in non-organic farming. But I also think that those veggies I buy are not that much environment friendly. I think farmers don’t always farm organic way they just put the organic stamp on their products. I do not consume meat because I think people shouldn’t do that. Meat isn’t sustainable or ethical.

I pay extra to my electricity company for wind power so that I can have better self-conscience. I know I should consume less, but it’s harder.

I believe in equality and equal rights but its unbelievable how slowly world is changing.

c. How should one direct, govern and teach sustainable development in schools?

I think schools have to lead by example. It’s important to have well designed recycling system so that the students will learn to recycle correctly. Students should be taught basic economics and cultural aspects. Students need to be taught awareness.

d. How does sustainable development link to your area of work or study? (Think of the three spheres of sustainability: economic, social and environmental) Please give some ideas of how you could combine or apply a sustainability perspective to your subject.

In the field of beauty sustainability is still quite far away. Beauty markets are huge. The chemicals used in different products are difficult things. For example hair dyes are known to be toxic for environment and consumers, they are carcinogenic, allergenic and mutagenic but the use of hair dyes is increasing. Most of the beauty professionals have to give up on their career because of allergies. Beauty products and services are sold using uncertainty and low self-esteem of consumers. Products travel a long distance and the raw materials of those products consume natural resources. Packaging is often heavy and multi-layered.

On the other hand beauty products and services are supposed to make consumers feel better for themselves. At least for a while. Consumers feel more beautiful and wellbeing. Also the selection of organic products is increasing.

In my work I can prepare students to be more aware of those things mentioned earlier. We can focus on alternative ways to do things, to protect ourselves properly, to prefer more eco-friendly products and to make our customers to feel better for themselves. I think awareness is the key.

e. What was especially interesting or even surprising for you in this material (texts, video, and pdfs)?

I really enjoyed how sustainability was demonstrated in the video. Although economical sustainability was demonstrated through environmental values. I kind of expected economical development to be more - economical. I understand that if something costs a lot it usually consumes a lot too. But is it all?

Optional: We would need 3,28 earths is everyone lives like me.