Sustainability is a multifaceted concept that embodies the balance between our needs, the environment, and the well-being of future generations. The concept has been gaining traction around the world since the report “Our Common Future,” was released by the Brundtland Commission in 1987. It introduced the term “sustainable development,” which emphasises meeting the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs.
More importantly, the concept is not rhetoric, as the case for change is real. The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) reported that global temperatures are already 1.1 °C above pre-industrial levels, and experts predict they will reach 1.5 °C in the early 2030s. Without realising it, we are already experiencing its impacts, like heatwaves, heavy precipitation, droughts and tropical storms.
Some people change when they see the light… others change when they feel the heat.
Caroline Schoeder
All parties guided by the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) have increasingly accepted and practiced sustainability efforts. The motives are varied, ranging from the need to protect ecosystems, wildlife and plant species, reducing pollution and effectively conserving resources, fairness and justice, reducing inequality, ensuring the long-term viability of businesses, leaving a legacy and responsibility for future generations.
Recognising the situation, sustainability has become everyone’s business. The efforts to move economic activities from a high carbon footprint to low carbon footprint demand commitments from every country to realise Net Zero targets. In the case of Malaysia, the government has set its sights on achieving carbon neutrality by 2050 as part of the Twelfth Malaysia Plan (12MP). To meet this ambitious target, the country has pledged to reduce its greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions by up to 45% by 2030, in accordance with the Paris Agreement (MIDA). Focus initiative can be looked at a city, for example, as it is not only a significant economic wealth generator but also a source of emissions and pollution. Among the major contributing factors to emissions are activities from transportation, industry, urbanisation, residential and commercial, energy production, deforestation and land use. Most major cities around the world have embraced the smart city concept as a way to address sustainability issues. The primary goal of a smart city is to optimise city functions, promote economic growth and improve the quality of life for its residents by utilising smart technologies and data analysis.
At the industrial level, companies take the Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) requirements seriously and demonstrate them wherever possible to remain competitive in an increasingly eco-conscious consumer market. Additionally, incorporating the idea of the circular economy into all processes (upstream, midstream and downstream) that allow materials and goods to circulate for as long as possible will achieve this. It reduces material use, redesigns materials and products to be less resource intensive and recaptures “waste” as a resource to manufacture new materials and products (US-EPA).
From economic perspectives to the environment, increasing temperatures affect not only humans and their activities but also plants and animals. More pressing challenges are related to food and water security. It has been observed that agriculture productivity has been slower over the past 50 years, with a slight shift of staple food crops towards extinction.
So much more effort at the global level needs to be made to keep 1.5 °C in check. Financial constraints and expertise to conduct research, development and innovation in related domains will always be an uphill challenge. Therefore, striking collaboration across countries worldwide through science diplomacy, could be an approach to build capacities and capabilities collectively, to accelerate progress towards realising the SDGs agenda.
In summary, sustainability is crucial for balancing our needs with the well-being of future generations and protecting the environment. Climate change is a real threat and we must act now to address it. Countries like Malaysia aim for carbon neutrality, while cities are adopting smart technologies. Businesses are also embracing eco-friendly practices. Collaboration through science diplomacy is key to accelerating progress towards our sustainability goals. It is not just an option but a necessity for a better future for all.
This edition highlights sustainability as a worldwide concern that tackles environmental and social issues. It discusses topics such as ensuring food security amidst climate change, lowering carbon emissions in cities, and implementing ESG measures in sectors like rare earth mining. The sharing economy is showcased as a means to empower communities while also enhancing high-tech ecosystems digitally. The importance of sustainable modernisation of fishing vessels and advancements in air mobility are underscored. Additionally, the issue delves into smart grid policies for urban development, contributing to shaping global city megatrends in favour of sustainability.
References:
(MIDA – https://www.mida.gov.my/equilibrium-through-carbon-capture-malaysias-path-to-net-zero emissions/#:~:text=Malaysia%20has%20set%20its%20sights%20on%20achieving%20carbon,by%202030%2C%20in%20accordance%20with%20the%20Paris%20Agreement.).
