SDGs for Dummies
The 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) were adopted by the United Nations in 2015 as a universal call to action to end poverty, protect the planet, and ensure that by 2030 all people enjoy peace and prosperity.
These 17 Goals (SDGs) might sound complex, but it’s a simple roadmap for creating a better world whereby achieving a sustainable balance among economic, social and environmental development is put at the forefront of worldly progression.
From a bird’s eye view, the earth has many thriving aspects, but is also riddled with economic, social, and environmental challenges that hinder a viable, balanced lifestyle for all. We face a great imbalance of wealth, tremendous poverty, and a perpetuating habit of wasteful practices and overconsumption by mankind.
The big picture: all 17 goals are interconnected, and each play a specific role in improving aspects of life on earth.
Let's explore!
THE 17 SDGs:
1. No Poverty:
Poverty can be defined as ‘insufficient resources to meet human needs”…
A fundamental characteristic of a thriving society is ensuring all its members have a foundation for a dignified life. This means access to basic needs such as food, shelter, water, and healthcare. Without these, individuals struggle to reach their full potential and thus weaken the very fabric of society.
2. Zero Hunger:
Hunger not only casts a shadow of suffering among societies, but also impedes the individual’s well-being and by extension, a society’s progression and growth.
As we aim toward a future where no one yearns for food security, stakeholders within society must play their part in achieving this. These stakeholders include, but are not limited to:
Governing bodies: ensuring equal access to resources, land, and markets.
Private and State institutions: investment from both entities is critical for accessing food supplies and empowering individuals to adopt self-sufficient practices for such.
Agricultural farmers: adopting sustainable agricultural practices and the ability to adapt to changing weather patterns.
3. Good Health & Well-being:
A healthy population, physically and mentally, forms the bedrock of a flourishing society. Access to quality healthcare is an essential right and ensures that individuals can reach their potential and contribute to the collective good of a nation.
Governing bodies should make it a priority to ensure that their citizens are able to access the necessary healthcare needed. This means access to affordable medication, well trained/educated doctors and nurses, proper infrastructure and services that allow people the options to choose the right care for them.
4. Quality Education:
By fostering quality education for all, we cultivate informed citizens capable of contributing meaningfully to society's advancement. Education unlocks potential, fosters critical thinking, and paves the way for a highly functioning society. Nations worldwide should ensure all citizens are granted equal access to basic education and learning opportunities.
5. Gender Equality:
A society that excludes half its potential is inherently imbalanced. Gender equality ensures all individuals, regardless of gender, can contribute their talents and perspectives to society. When everyone, in society is empowered, regardless of sex, entire societies flourish.
6. Clean Water & Sanitation:
Clean water and sanitation are fundamental necessities. Water can be a source of life but also a carrier of many different diseases and viruses, thus can potentially threaten human life. It is imperative that civilizations have access to clean water and proper sanitation to maintain life and balance within society.
Ensuring water sources are clean and accessible as well implementing proper sanitation practices and systems, not only safeguard individuals and communities but prevents major destruction to societies.
7. Affordable & Clean Energy:
For centuries the earth has been harboring greenhouse gas emissions which has played a major role in the climb of the earth’s temperature. This has a rippling effect on the environment as the earth’s temperatures maintain equilibrium within various ecosystems on earth.
Transitioning to clean energy derived from natural resources fosters and maintains environmental well-being, ensuring a healthy future for generations to come. It is imperative that across industries stringent measures, laws and regulations are implemented to effectively reduce emissions on a global scale.
8. Decent Work & Economic Growth:
The ILO (International Labour Organization) defines decent work as more than just a paycheck. It's about having a job that offers:
Meaning and growth: Contributing to something bigger and developing your skills.
Security and fairness: Feeling safe and treated equally, with good wages and benefits.
A voice and a future: Having a say in your work environment and a path to advancement.
Decent work is the foundation for a thriving society where everyone benefits.
9. Industry, Innovation & Infrastructure:
An innovative society is a progressive one, and thus, innovation has always been at the heart of every groundbreaking evolution the world has seen. However, there can be no innovation without the proper tools needed to bolster a society that is able to adapt and create.
This SDG emphasizes the need for responsible industrial practices, coupled with technological advancements that promote creativity, inclusion, diversity, and adaptive perspectives within a population.
With the right tools, societies can build smart infrastructure that facilitates a sustainable world.
10. Reduced Inequalities:
A society where few flourish and many struggle is inherently unstable and imbalanced. The pursuit of reduced inequalities seek to bridge the gap between rich and poor, fostering a society that not only has a happier and healthier population, but also reduces the related socio-economic impacts of poverty.
When everyone has the opportunity to participate and contribute, we create a stronger and more resilient society for all.
11. Sustainable Cities & Communities:
What does it mean to make urban cities and human settlements safe, resilient, and sustainable?
Studies have shown that there is a strong link between the quality of life and how cities use and manage natural resources available to them. A rise in population and an increase in urbanization has accelerated the demand for basic services, infrastructure, jobs, land, and affordable housing. Due to higher concentrations of urban settlements, the need for these services and infrastructure make cities extremely vulnerable to climate change and its impacts.
Building urban resilience is crucial to avoid human, social and economic losses. Resource efficient cities combine greater productivity and innovation with lower costs and reduced environmental impacts, while providing increased opportunities for consumer choices and sustainable lifestyles.
12. Responsible Consumption & Production:
The current global consumption patterns are unsustainable. For decades the human population has been known for overconsumption, thus exceeding the Earth’s capacity to replenish resources and absorb waste.
This SDG advocates for a shift towards responsible consumption and production practices.
Utilizing resources wisely, efficiently, minimizing waste, and adopting more sustainable modes of production, we can safeguard the environment for future generations and ensure a future where we "live within our means" as a global community.
13. Climate Action:
Our planet faces a rising threat. Climate change disrupts ecosystems, displaces communities, and jeopardizes the well-being of all living things. Taking decisive action to mitigate climate change is no longer an option; it is an imperative for ensuring a habitable planet for generations to come.
14. Life Below Water:
The health of our oceans and land ecosystems inextricably linked to our own well-being. Protecting biodiversity, both above and below the waves, is not merely a cause for environmentalists; it is a matter of safeguarding the very foundation of life on Earth.
Governments can enact strict regulations on pollution, particularly from land-based sources, and establish marine protected areas to safeguard vital ecosystems. Additionally, investing in sustainable fishing practices and combating illegal fishing will ensure healthy fish populations. Private entities, from shipping companies reducing their carbon footprint to tourism operators promoting responsible practices, can significantly contribute to sustained life below water.
15. Life on Land:
This encompasses the crucial task of protecting and restoring our planet's ecosystems on land. Governments can significantly contribute to this by implementing policies that promote sustainable forestry practices, combat desertification, and establish protected areas for biodiversity.
Fostering research into regenerative agriculture and providing economic incentives for land conservation can empower farmers and land stewards. Private entities can also play a vital role by adopting sustainable sourcing practices, reducing their environmental footprint, and investing in conservation efforts.
Collaboration is key to achieving this goal, ensuring a future where healthy ecosystems thrive and support all life on land.
16. Peace, Justice & Strong Institutions:
A society that fosters peace, justice, and strong institutions creates the fertile ground for sustainable development. The rule of law, respect for human rights, and a commitment to peaceful conflict resolution are essential for building a world where all individuals can thrive.
17. Partnerships for the Goals:
No single entity can achieve the SDGs alone. Collaboration between governments, businesses, civil society, and individuals is paramount. By working together, sharing knowledge and resources, we can transform these ambitious goals from aspirations to a lived reality.
These 17 SDGs are not just a to-do list; they're a blueprint for a thriving future for all. From tackling climate change to ensuring quality education, each goal is interconnected, requiring a global effort.
Businesses, governments, and individuals – we all have a role to play. By working together, we can create a more sustainable, equitable, and prosperous world for generations to come.
Let's embrace the challenge and make the SDGs a reality!