From Problems to Solutions: The Path to a Sustainable Future

Hannah Aisha I. Rizon                                                                      11- Bl. Peter of Gubbio

        

Can you imagine living on a weak and dying planet while so many problems are happening and you’re doing nothing to help? It’s not too late to step up and make a difference! Let us work together to create a better future for everyone. The earth is not only essential but provides all the things necessary for survival, such as clean air, water, and food that nourish our healthy, supportive environment. However, with each passing year, the earth is getting sicker, and a huge percentage of this is caused by us, humans. This is alarming because it can affect us today and our future, which is why the Sustainable Development Goals have been implemented to encourage us to take action to save our planet, end poverty and justice, and have access to health to have a better life for a more sustainable future by 2030. 


I have personally engaged with the SDGs, and from the 17 goals, I mostly resonate with SDG numbers 4,5, 10, and 13, which are Quality Education, Gender Equality, Climate Action, and Reduced Inequalities. I resonate with these because first, SDGs numbers 4, Quality Education, and 13, Climate Actions, both have long-lasting effects on future generations which not just affects myself but the entire population. Quality education is also super important because it gives people the skills and knowledge they need to better their lives and help their families. Climate action focuses on and deals with urgent environmental problems that endanger the planet and future generations. Additionally, gender equality and reduced inequalities are important because they fight against unfairness that limits opportunities. Promoting gender equality gives everyone equal rights and chances, helping society and the economy grow while reducing inequalities allows diverse voices and talents to be heard.


Enhancing quality education is essential for achieving the SDGs because it acts as a bridge to all the other goals. A stepping stone that helps us tackle issues like poverty, health, equality, etc. more effectively. This also applies to the elimination of poverty, health issues, and inequality, among other issues. Related to the 4th SDG, the quality of education that is offered makes sure that every individual gets a good education, which means better employment opportunities and a healthy economy related to SDG 8. Similarly, it provides better health because of the knowledge of healthy practices in cooperation with SDG 3, promotes gender equality in cooperation with SDG 5, and reduces the inequalities outlined in SDG 10. Also, it enables people to think critically, act on climate change goals which connect to SDG 11, and cultivate a culture of peace and justice in SDG 16. Without education, especially quality education, it will not be possible to attain and reach the goals set and have a sustainable society.


Local communities can help achieve the Sustainable Development Goals in several ways. They can help by raising awareness through campaigns to promote sustainable practices like recycling programs, clean-up drives, social programs, health checkups, and education tutoring. In my community, a group of homeowners organizes cleanup drives twice a week, and the local government helps those in need. One of the best cared-for areas is focused on SDG 15, Life on Land, where the trees and natural spaces are well taken care of, giving us fresh air and shade from the heat. If my community can take these positive steps, then other communities can definitely follow our example. When lots of people make an effort to help the environment and work towards the Sustainable Development Goals, we can really make a difference. Together, we can reach these goals and create a happier, better world for everyone.


The steps I can take to advocate for and advance the Sustainable Development Goals in my daily life and career are to start by learning more about what SDGs are and why they matter. I can start by first doing activities to sustain a healthy and strong society, such as recycling or minimizing waste, as well as buying environmentally friendly products. This can be engaged through volunteering with local organizations that meet a specific goal, like the food bank or environment group. Plus, I am a teenager influenced by social media, so I can share it and get other people to do something to change things for a good cause. A student like me can professionally take several steps toward advocating for the Sustainable Development Goals. Like joining school clubs dedicated to sustainability or other social issues and getting along with other people. I can also choose SDG topics to research for school projects so that I can pass it on to fellow students who are also interested and want to help for a better change. Since I want to be a doctor someday, I can start today by volunteering in health-related organizations that aim to aid and inspire others. 


In conclusion, we have needed a more sustainable future for a long time. We cannot deny our world and our communities' needs for longer periods. Together, we can make a healthier and equal world. Whether through education, advocating for gender equality, or acting against climate change, each of us has a role to play. All of us are empowered to contribute in making a change. Each one of us can begin our small ways by embracing sustainable habits, volunteering with organizations in our locality, and sharing with the world what needs to be made right. As Helen Keller once said, "Alone we can do so little; together we can do so much." Let's unite and create lasting change for a brighter tomorrow.


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