With advancements in technology and innovations, there is always a threat of creating issues in the environment. Humans have been deteriorating the Earth for several years at a rate faster than the time needed for the self-regulation of the planet. This is what brought sustainability into the picture. Sustainability is aimed at limiting the damage to the environment. But this is not enough anymore. It is time for companies and organizations to move to a more important technology called regenerative culture.
Sustainability has become a buzzword in recent years, with businesses and individuals striving to reduce their impact on the environment. While sustainability is undoubtedly important, it is crucial to recognize that it is just one piece of the puzzle. This article delves into the concept of going beyond sustainability and embracing a holistic approach to environmental responsibility that encompasses broader considerations for a more sustainable future.
Regenerative culture embraces the concept that the environment is damaged. It also accepts that it will not be able to recover by itself even if no further damage is done to it. Regeneration focuses on the restoration of the environment. It is aimed at recovering the self-regulating properties of the environment to create conditions favorable for all forms of life. It is centered on improving the biodiversity of the earth, which will, in turn, enrich the soil, improve productivity, and enhance the standard of living.
Technologists, designers, planning professionals, and policy-makers should challenge themselves to create action-based policies to restore and regenerate the planet. Regeneration can also be achieved by reducing global resource consumption and demand and moving towards resource reuse and recycling.
For several years Globibo targeted to be not only a sustainable organization but to provide a genuine contribution in regards to the impact it has on the community. The basic principle was always explained by a simple example: Cleaning up the mess that you created with a BBQ in a park, doesn’t make you a good person. If you clean up the entire park you are.
The word sustainability itself suggests “maintaining” the situation as is. Also in most organizations, the term is used to “offset” the dirt produced or to have a “neutral” impact on the environment. We feel that this is not good enough.
Several initiatives that had been implemented over the years have been consolidated now in the SustainaBuild program. That means if we destroy a tree for paper, we will plant 2000 back. That means if we use Electricity, we will create new, entirely clean electricity sources back in a ratio of 1: 2000.
The same principle is applied in everything we do, and everything we touch; it includes supplier selection, talent development, and all internal operations of the organization around the world. With that Globibo doesn’t only provide a clean balance sheet, but truly contributes to a positive footprint.
For more information about our SustainaBuild program, please contact us.
Understanding the Ecological Footprint:
While sustainability focuses on minimizing negative impacts, a holistic approach involves understanding and reducing our ecological footprint. This encompasses not only reducing resource consumption and waste but also considering the entire life cycle of products and services, including their production, distribution, use, and disposal. By evaluating and addressing our ecological footprint, we can better understand the true environmental impact of our actions.
Transitioning to a Circular Economy:
A holistic approach to environmental responsibility involves transitioning from a linear economy to a circular economy. Instead of the traditional “take-make-dispose” model, a circular economy aims to keep resources in use for as long as possible through strategies like recycling, reusing, and repurposing. This shift requires designing products for durability, embracing sustainable materials, and implementing efficient recycling and waste management systems.
Promoting Environmental Stewardship:
Beyond sustainability, a holistic approach entails actively promoting environmental stewardship. This involves engaging stakeholders, such as employees, customers, and local communities, in sustainability initiatives. It includes education and awareness programs to foster a sense of responsibility and inspire positive action. By involving everyone in the journey toward environmental responsibility, we can create a collective commitment to preserving our planet.
Embracing Innovation and Technology:
A holistic approach recognizes the power of innovation and technology in driving environmental progress. It involves embracing advancements in clean energy, eco-friendly materials, and sustainable practices. By leveraging technology, businesses can optimize their operations, reduce waste, and develop innovative solutions that contribute to a more sustainable future.
Collaboration and Partnerships:
Addressing complex environmental challenges requires collaboration and partnerships across sectors. A holistic approach involves fostering collaborations between businesses, governments, non-profit organizations, and communities. By working together, sharing knowledge, and pooling resources, we can tackle environmental issues more effectively and drive meaningful change on a larger scale.
Conclusion:
While sustainability is a vital starting point, it is not enough to address the pressing environmental challenges we face. Embracing a holistic approach to environmental responsibility goes beyond sustainability, encompassing a broader perspective that considers the ecological footprint, promotes a circular economy, encourages environmental stewardship, embraces innovation, and fosters collaboration. By adopting this approach, we can create a more sustainable and resilient future for generations to come.