Issues in the environment are not all new. In fact, such problems surfaced since the 19th century – the aftermath of the industrial revolution.
Technology and nature, on some levels, do not coincide. Coals have been utilized to support power supply that also supports types of machinery.
At some point (at least not so much in the current aspect), innovation or development equates to pollution.
As early as the 1950s, there were already attempts to raise awareness and spread information about the adverse impact of technological innovation on the environment.
The price people have to pay for the advancement of technology is increasing. Not that innovation cannot do humanity any good; however, development should not be at the expense of the existing natural resources and the entire community that relies on it.
Changes are evident in the seasons. Natural disasters, while inevitable, are extremely destructive and even getting far worse – putting many lives and resources at stake. The nation cannot seem to handle such extremity anymore. Hence, the attempt and will to advance the various disaster and risk reduction programs.
The national initiative of the government is vital to encourage people to engage and be informed of what they can do to abate the effects of climate change. While these initiatives are deemed essential, promotion of sustainability and environmental protection shall be participated by local businesses and big corporations.
Tapping businesses to participate is necessary because they are the ones who produce massive supplies and in control of a heavy production for public or market consumption. In simple terms, they have the power to influence people. Thus, getting them to be more aware of the implications and existing atrocities of generating materials that can batter the environment is not only essential but should also be mandatory.
In return, businesses can also gain adherence from the market in promoting and achieving sustainability. Hence, it can empower their venture in the long run while influencing more and more people to participate. Many startups today leverage by promoting and encouraging the market to shift to using sustainable products on its excellent cause.
One hindrance why businesses cannot or would not power through sustainability and eco-friendly initiatives because it could mean more expense from their end. What these companies do not see yet is the ‘good cause’ that makes them more preferable by the market while in bequeath to support sustainability.
More often than not, businesses have more competence and power to influence people even more than how the government has done. Thus, sustainability and the potential to help the environment combat its issues could rely on enterprises (primarily, but not solely).
The future is indeed sustainable. It is not (at least not yet) a hopeless case. The government, business (whether big or small), together with the community should work hand-in-hand towards the goal of a sustainable future.
Technology-centered or -driven companies could make use of the opportunities to lead business sustainability by making wise choices on how they consume energy and where they generate it.
Retailers and Fast-Moving Consumer Goods (FMCG) companies can support this effort by averting the use of single-use plastics in their packaging.
Culling better alternatives to what was usually the best resort due to its economic advantages could be overwhelming at some point. The community should also realize that what is economical sometimes does not duly equate to being environmental and sustainable. Therefore, it can result in drawbacks and other complications – whether in health, finances, ecological, etc.
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