Before I jump into my perspective of what it means to be a global sustainable leader let’s first start with some basic definitions. What is sustainability and what is sustainable development?
Sustainability is a broad concept that’s about managing resources in a way that ensures they’re available for future generations. It means using natural, social, and economic resources wisely so that we can meet our needs today without leaving future generations in a worse position. Although sustainability is often used in the context of protecting the environment it’s so much more than that. Sustainability is about creating systems that create a balance between ecological health, economic well-being, and social fairness over a longer period of time. In short, sustainability is about how we can maximize our resources to promote thriving societies that do not deplete the Earth’s resources.
Sustainable development is a concept that challenges the traditional method of development used in modern societies. It challenges one to think outside of short term gains and develop a mindset that is focused on the overall long term success of a society. Sustainable development is truly a marathon and not a sprint. It advocates for innovations that help reduce the consumption of natural resources and minimize waste, such as the adoption of renewable energy. Sustainable development focuses more on topics such as but not limited to poverty, health, education, and inequality and how these constructs correlate with one another.
Through my participation in the Global Sustainable Business course, I’ve gained a clearer understanding of what it means to be a global sustainable leader. To me, a global sustainable leader isn’t just someone who understands the principles of sustainability but someone who actively applies them in a way that creates a long-lasting, positive impact. A global sustainable leader sees the world through a circular lens—recognizing that the environment, society, and economy are deeply interconnected. They understand that decisions made in one area can directly and indirectly impact other areas.
A true global sustainable leader is someone who not only focuses on short-term gains or personal ambition. Instead, they look through a long-term lens taking into account the consequences of their actions, always considering the future. They have the foresight to understand how their decisions today will shape the world for future generations. A global sustainable leader thinks about how they’ll impact people, ecosystems, and economies down the line. This ability to think beyond the present moment, and recognize the broader and more lasting consequences of one’s actions, is a key aspect of sustainable leadership.
One of the most defining qualities of a global sustainable leader is their ability to balance the needs of the present with the health of the future. They don’t exploit materials in a way that causes depletion to the Earth’s resources. Rather, they strive to maximize the value of the resources at their disposal by finding creative ways to minimize waste, reduce energy consumption, and close the gap between production and consumption. Instead of depleting resources, they look for ways to use what they have more wisely, ensuring that both people and the planet can thrive in the future.
A global sustainable leader isn’t afraid to challenge the status quo. They make difficult decisions that may not always align with immediate desires or what the world deems as success, but that ultimately benefit the greater good. They prioritize long-term sustainability over short-term reward, realizing that the future of the planet and its people depends on making responsible choices today. Ultimately, a global sustainable leader is someone who sees their role/ position not as a driver of profit or success, but as an advocate for the stewardship of both the world and its people.
Prior to the global sustainable business class I have always been interested in the concept of sustainability. I made conscious efforts to live sustainably by recycling regularly, taking public transportation to school instead of driving, and doing my best to minimize waste in my daily life. However, since traveling to the most pristine continent on Earth…Antarctica, the topic of sustainability has transformed from a mere interest to a deep passion of mine. Having had the opportunity to witness a place so pristine and untouched by humanity, yet undoubtedly impacted by our actions, has sparked a desire in me to become a global sustainable leader moving forward. Antarctica has truly ignited my passion for sustainability by teaching me the beauty of simplicity. A continent that is more than a blank canvas, but rather a work of art radiating how less is often times more.
