Module 1: Introduction to Sustainability
Lesson 1.1: What is Sustainability?
Definition and Importance: Sustainability refers to meeting the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs. It balances environmental health, economic viability, and social equity. The importance of sustainability lies in its potential to create a harmonious relationship between human activities and the natural world, ensuring long-term prosperity and well-being for all.
The Three Pillars of Sustainability:
Environmental Sustainability: Focuses on conserving natural resources, reducing pollution, and protecting ecosystems to maintain the planet’s health.
Social Sustainability: Aims to promote social equity, justice, and well-being, ensuring that all individuals have access to basic needs and opportunities.
Economic Sustainability: Involves creating economic systems that are resilient, inclusive, and capable of supporting long-term growth without depleting natural resources.
Lesson 1.2: Global Sustainability Challenges
Climate Change: Climate change refers to significant changes in global temperatures and weather patterns over time. While climate change is a natural phenomenon, human activities, notably burning fossil fuels and deforestation, have accelerated the process. This leads to:
Rising global temperatures
Melting polar ice caps and glaciers
Increased frequency and severity of extreme weather events (e.g., hurricanes, droughts, floods)
Ocean acidification and rising sea levels
Resource Depletion: Resource depletion occurs when natural resources are consumed faster than they can be replenished. Key resources at risk include:
Fossil Fuels: Due to overconsumption, non-renewable energy sources like coal, oil, and natural gas are being depleted.
Water: Freshwater resources are dwindling due to overuse, pollution, and climate change.
Forests: Deforestation for agriculture, logging, and urban development reduces biodiversity and disrupts ecosystems.
Minerals: Over-extraction of minerals for industrial use leads to habitat destruction and resource scarcity.
Pollution and Waste: Pollution and waste are major environmental challenges that impact air, water, and soil quality. Key issues include:
Air Pollution: Emissions from vehicles, industries, and agriculture release harmful pollutants like carbon dioxide, methane, and particulate matter into the atmosphere, contributing to respiratory diseases and climate change.
Water Pollution: Contaminants from industrial discharge, agricultural runoff, and plastic waste pollute rivers, lakes, and oceans, harming aquatic life and human health.
Soil Pollution: Pesticides, heavy metals, and industrial waste contaminate soil, affecting crop production and ecosystem health.
Waste Management: The increasing volume of solid waste, mainly plastic waste, poses significant challenges for disposal and recycling, leading to environmental degradation and health risks.