#Sustainable Development

[reality-detective]

UN & WEF - Sustainable development control plan means.

Corporate control of all Earth’s inventory.

▪️Land

▪️Water

▪️Minerals

▪️Plants

▪️Animals

▪️Construction

▪️Production

▪️Food

▪️Energy

▪️Information

▪️Humans

Corporations & NGO’s supersede you. 🤔

[lily0819]

A big step forward for clean energy in the PA. ACPMember CCRSolar has completed construction of its 24 MW Erie Solar project in Erie, PA. The solar site will generate an estimated $2.4 million in tax revenues for Erie County over its 40-year lifespan. Take a look at this month’s project celebration with senatorlaughlin.

[my-autism-adhd-blog]

Sustainable Jobs for Autistic People

Autistic Qualia

[themorningowl]

What scares you, you want to protect yourself from,

but what you love, you want to protect.

I want to protect landscapes like these and everything they contain.

I am a part of them, and they are a part of me.

What do you want to protect?

Nature conservation fact: Familiarity with nature increases the sense of belonging to it and thus one's willingness to protect it. 

[probablyasocialecologist]

Green growth, which is currently the most accepted path to a sustainable future, posits that economic output can continue to expand in a sustainable way by shifting to renewable energy and circular economies. Most governments around the world that recognize the need for climate action promote economic growth through green investment, decarbonized industrial policies and sustainable business practices. But there is growing doubt about whether these strategies will be enough to avert climate disaster. As climate activist Greta Thunberg famously said at the United Nations Climate Action Summit in 2019, “We are in the beginning of a mass extinction, and all you can talk about is money and fairy tales of eternal economic growth.”

This critique of economic growth is not only being made by activists. It is also on the rise in academic research. Green growth is increasingly being challenged on empirical grounds. Indeed, scientific evidence from recent years shows that if the high-emitting countries of the Global North continue to pursue green growth, it is extremely unlikely that greenhouse gas emissions will be reduced at the rate and scale needed to avoid climate collapse. And in an increasingly robust body of scientific literature, ecological economists have identified the limits of the growth paradigm, including the paradox that more efficient use of resources often lowers their costs and thus ultimately leads to greater use.

These ideas have come to be known collectively as “degrowth,” which calls for a planned contraction of economic activity aimed at increasing wellbeing and equality. Degrowth argues that to achieve sustainability, so-called developed countries need to abandon the objective of GDP growth and scale down less necessary and destructive forms of production to reduce energy and material use.

Reducing inequality is often at the heart of policy proposals advanced by degrowth advocates. Among other things, they focus on reducing working time for all and introducing maximum income limits. At the same, degrowth also seeks to improve public services and enable sustainable development globally, through reparations as well as by curbing unequal exchange in international trade.

[...]

A recent paper in Nature summarized five key policy areas at the heart of the degrowth agenda, suggesting ways that countries in the Global North could rapidly reduce emissions while improving social well-being.

First, scaling down those sectors of the economy that cannot be made sustainable in time or mainly serve elite consumption, such as fossil fuels, fast fashion, advertising and aviation. Second, government provision of “universal public services” such as “high-quality health care, education, housing, transportation, Internet, renewable energy and nutritious food.” Third, introducing a green jobs guarantee, mobilizing labor for the ecological transition and improving social care. Fourth, reducing working time to not only lower the carbon emissions of production and stabilize employment, but also to free people to enjoy more time not working. And finally, enabling sustainable development globally by canceling Global South debt, curbing unequal exchange in international trade and ultimately instituting ecological reparations.

[intersection-of-art-and-science]

Computational design on the Biorock Pavilion:

Excerpt from Dezeen article:

The Biorock Pavilion is a concept for an amphitheatre-like event space that could be grown underwater. The form of the building is based on that of a seashell, as well as mathematical forms.

The basis of the pavilion would be a skeletal structure comprised of a network of very thin steel rods, which would be immersed in a solution of minerals.

It would be grown by electrodeposition of minerals

An electric current would then be run through the steel skeleton, allowing the remainder of the pavilion to be 'grown' as the minerals calcify atop the base structure.

"It takes those minerals out of the seawater and produces a structure similar to reinforced concrete," stated Pawlyn. "This uses an absolute minimum of material to grow a whole building."

[raffaellopalandri]

Book of the Day – The Age of Sustainable Development

Today’s Book of the Day is The Age of Sustainable Development, written by Jeffrey D. Sachs in 2015 and published by Columbia University Pres. Jeffrey D. Sachs is a world-renowned economics professor, author, educator, and global leader in sustainable economic development. The Age of Sustainable Development, by Jeffrey D. Sachs I chose this book because I often mention it when I present the…

[arashderambarsh]

Comment la ville de Courbevoie est devenue un leader mondial dans la lutte contre le gaspillage alimentaire (par Arash DERAMBARSH dans REVUE POLITIQUE ET PARLEMENTAIRE).

Depuis l’adoption de la loi contre le gaspillage alimentaire, votée le 11 février 2016, les supermarchés ont l’obligation de reverser leurs invendus à des associations caritatives.[1]

Ainsi, cette loi a rapidement prouvé ses effets bénéfiques : plus de 10 millions de repas sont distribués chaque année en France. Cela représente une augmentation de 22 % des dons alimentaires destinés aux associations caritatives.

De plus, nous veillons à la bonne application de la loi.

Accompagnés de lanceurs d’alerte et d’huissiers de justice, nous n’avons cessé d’inspecter les poubelles à côté des supermarchés pour constater les atteintes à la loi.

Après avoir constaté que plusieurs magasins continuaient de jeter les invendus alimentaires à la poubelle, nous avons déposé de nombreuses plaintes à leur encontre. Les procédures fonctionnent et sont un moyen de dissuasion efficace. Sans compter les « Bad buzz » et la mauvaise réputation des magasins récalcitrants.

Mais cela n’a pas suffi et il fallait donc aller plus loin.

Ainsi qui mieux qu’une municipalité pour appliquer la loi contre le gaspillage alimentaire et devenir un laboratoire mondial ?

La ville de Courbevoie a reçu les agents de l’Organisation des Nations Unies pour l’alimentation et l’agriculture (FAO) le 2 vendredi février 2024.

Ils sont venus de Rome pour constater et valider l’officialisation d’un chiffre record : 400 000 repas ont été économisés et redistribués à des associations caritatives pour que les démunis (classe moyenne représentant des mères ou pères célibataires élevant plusieurs enfants, des retraités, des chômeurs ou encore des étudiants) puissent manger à leur faim.[2]

Cette situation sociale démontre d’ailleurs que même dans une ville d’apparence « riche », la pauvret�� a de multiples facettes. La pauvreté augmente et la classe moyenne décline.

Ainsi dans un rapport alarmant, le Secours Catholique a estimé que près de 10 % des Français ont recours à l’aide alimentaire.[3]

En effet, « entre 5 et 7 millions de personnes » ont eu recours à l’aide alimentaire en 2020 alerte le Secours Catholique dans son rapport annuel sur l’état de la pauvreté en France publié sur la base des données de la Direction générale de la cohésion sociale (DGCS).[4]

La ville de Courbevoie a donc fait preuve d’inventivité dans sa lutte contre le gaspillage alimentaire.[5]

Depuis 2020, avec son Maire Jacques Kossowski, nous avons lancé une campagne pour mettre fin au gaspillage alimentaire.

En France, le mandat d’un élu municipal est de six ans. L’objectif était donc de faire de notre ville un laboratoire mondial.

Avant toute chose, il convenait de faire un premier constat.

Depuis le 11 février 2016, la règle interdisant le gaspillage alimentaire est limitée aux seuls magasins de plus de 400 m2.

La loi a permis la distribution de plus de 10 millions de repas par an et ses effets positifs se sont immédiatement fait sentir.

C’est en effet une hausse de plus de 22 % d’invendus alimentaires qui sont destinés chaque année aux associations caritatives.

Cette loi a été applaudie dans le monde entier.

Mais au niveau local, il y a encore des marges de manœuvres permettant de faire reculer ce fléau.

En effet, cette loi exonère les deux tiers des supermarché implantés à Courbevoie car leur surface de vente est inférieure à 400 m².

Il a donc été décidé qu’avec l’aide de plusieurs start-up et acteurs sociaux et économiques, une charte contre le gaspillage alimentaire serait votée chaque année dans toutes les sphères d’activité de la ville :

2020 avec tous les supermarchés situés dans la ville sans délimitation de superficie

2021 avec restauration hospitalière

2022 avec restauration scolaire

2023 auprès des commerces alimentaires (commerces de bouche, restaurants, boulangeries, marchés)

2024 avec les maisons de retraite

Ces chartes d’engagement, une première en France, ont un objectif multiple :

Créer des synergies pour que chacun puisse prendre part à ce combat et adapter ses pratiques

Participer à la sensibilisation du grand public à la lutte contre le gaspillage alimentaire

Contribuer à réduire l’impact économique de ces déchets

Mettre en place des partenariats de dons alimentaires en faveur des associations conformément à la loi

Promouvoir les partenariats avec les associations municipales

Organiser des promotions « anti-gaspi », notamment pour les produits proches de la date limite de consommation (DLC)

Proposer des ventes en gros ou à l’unité afin d’adapter les quantités achetées et réduire les emballages

Favoriser le développement des produits frais, et développer des opérations marketing de sensibilisation (opération « Fruits et Légumes Moches », etc.)

Mener une discussion avec les fournisseurs afin de définir une stratégie de contrôle contre le gaspillage alimentaire (chartes qualité des produits, etc.)

Agir pour valoriser les déchets.

Par ailleurs, le 24 octobre 2022, la ville de Courbevoie a organisé une réunion de travail à l’Assemblée nationale dans le but de proposer un amendement à la législation française contre le gaspillage alimentaire. Les députés Karl Olive et Philippe Juvin étaient présents à la réunion.[6]

La proposition était simple : modifier la loi contre le gaspillage alimentaire promulguée le 11 février 2016.[7]

La ville de Courbevoie a spécifiquement proposé les amendements suivants :

Réduire le plafond actuel de 400 m2 imposé aux supermarchés pour le réduire à au moins 100 m2 afin d’inclure plus de 5 000 points de vente supplémentaires.

Augmenter les amendes actuelles de la 5ème classe représentant 10 000 euros à 20 000 euros contre les supermarchés qui continuent de jeter les invendus alimentaires consommables.

Fort de tout ce travail, la FAO a désigné la ville de Courbevoie « Ville verte mondiale » en 2024, lui accordant ainsi une reconnaissance formelle.

Nous appelons ainsi toutes les communes à décliner ces chartes qui ne coûtent rien aux contribuables.

Comme le rappellent les rapports du projet DrawDown (2020) et du GIEC (2022), la réduction du gaspillage alimentaire est l’une des trois principales solutions pour lutter contre le réchauffement climatique.

Nous ne dirons pas que nous n’étions pas informés.

Arash Derambarsh

Adjoint au maire en charge du développement durable dans la commune de Courbevoie

Il est à l’origine de la loi contre le gaspillage alimentaire votée le 3 février 2016 en France. En Suède, en 2019, il a reçu le « WIN WIN Gothenburg Sustainability Award ».

—–

[1] Banque Alimentaire : https://www.ba-81.org/actualites/blog-des-b%C3%A9n%C3%A9voles/323-la-france-pionni%C3%A8re-de-la-lutte-contre-le-gaspillage-alimentaire.html

[2] « Courbevoie lutte contre le gaspillage alimentaire » (BFM TV) : https://www.bfmtv.com/paris/replay-emissions/bonjour-paris/hauts-de-seine-courbevoie-lutte-contre-le-gaspillage-alimentaire_VN-202402050155.html

[3] « Pauvreté en France : 10% de la population a eu besoin d’une aide alimentaire en 2020 » (Université Paris Saclay) : http://www.ritm.universite-paris-saclay.fr/poverty-in-france-10-of-the-population-needed-food-aid-in-2020/

[4] Site Ville de Courbevoie : https://www.ville-courbevoie.fr/2195/lutte-contre-le-gaspillage-alimentaire.htm

[5] The law on Food Waste – From Courbevoie to Assembly : https://resource.co/article/law-food-waste-courbevoie-assembly-10198

[6] « Antigaspillage alimentaire: une proposition de loi pour «aller plus loin» (La Voix du Nord) : https://www.lavoixdunord.fr/1252076/article/2022-11-10/antigaspillage-alimentaire-une-proposition-de-loi-pour-aller-plus-loin

[7] Proposition de loi : https://acrobat.adobe.com/id/urn:aaid:sc:EU:727392be-c20e-4f68-b86d-dcc46fca7193

@arashderambarsh @arash-derambarsh

[cnu-newurbanism]

Great Idea 22: Sustainable urbanism

The trend toward complete communities shapes the debate on sustainability and environmentalism, and vice-versa. Read more.

[coopsday]

Through democratic governance and shared ownership, cooperatives set an example for peace and stability.

For the 2024 CoopsDay, cooperatives can showcase their high standards for inclusive and sustainable growth, and service as stewards for protecting the environment and fighting climate change.

Through democratic governance and shared ownership, cooperatives set an example for peace and stability, bringing people from diverse backgrounds together on equal terms, and fostering understanding and respect.

Related Documents

International Day of Cooperatives

[lily0819]

Clean energy is driving a U.S. manufacturing renaissance: 42 new facilities are online & operating & 119 are under development across America. These domestic manufacturing facilities are spurring the creation of 100,000 good-paying American jobs.

[chinmayeesahu]

Enhancing CSR Impact through Collaboration with Marpu Foundation

The importance of corporate social responsibility (CSR) is higher than ever in the quickly changing business environment of today. Working together with like-minded organizations is crucial as companies look to improve society and the environment. The Marpu Foundation is one such collaboration that has a great deal of potential to increase the impact of CSR.

At the forefront of social change and sustainable development, the Marpu Foundation | NGO has established itself as a beacon of hope for communities worldwide. With a diverse portfolio of initiatives spanning education, healthcare, environmental conservation, and more, the foundation embodies a commitment to creating a better future for all.

"Marpu" - a synonym for transformation - was established by the respected National Youth Awardee, Mr. Kadiri Raghu Vamsi. Marpu Foundation | NGO focuses on harnessing the potential of individuals to bring about positive change in the world. With a team committed to effecting change and providing a supportive space for all, the Marpu Foundation earned the title of "The Best NGO in India" in 2020.

Emphasizing employee involvement and volunteering is one of the main features of the Marpu Foundation's CSR approach. It has over 80,261 volunteers and over 10,245,120 beneficiaries operating from 39 locations in 15 states. The themes of their work center on environmental sustainability, economic development, social development, and partnership for the goals.

Partnering with the Marpu Foundation not only enhances corporate social responsibility (CSR) efforts but also significantly contributes to advancing Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Marpu Foundation's projects are exemplary models of sustainable development, promoting social, economic, and environmental well-being. Here's how partnering with Marpu can boost CSR efforts and support SDGs, illustrated through some of their impactful projects:

1. Education Initiatives (SDG 4 - Quality Education): Marpu Foundation's education initiatives focus on providing quality education to underserved communities. Partnering with Marpu in these initiatives allows corporations to support SDG 4 by investing in programs that enhance access to education, improve literacy rates, and empower marginalized groups. For example, a partnership could fund the establishment of schools in rural areas, provide scholarships for underprivileged students, or support vocational training programs.

2. Clean Water and Sanitation (SDG 6 - Clean Water and Sanitation): Marpu Foundation undertakes projects aimed at ensuring access to clean water and sanitation facilities, particularly in areas facing water scarcity and poor sanitation. Collaborating with Marpu in such projects enables companies to address SDG 6 by funding the construction of water infrastructure, implementing water purification systems, or promoting hygiene awareness campaigns in communities lacking access to clean water and sanitation.

3. Women's Empowerment (SDG 5 - Gender Equality): Marpu Foundation is committed to promoting gender equality and women's empowerment through various initiatives such as skill development programs, entrepreneurship training, and advocacy for women's rights. Partnering with Marpu in these endeavors allows corporations to support SDG 5 by investing in projects that foster economic independence and social empowerment among women, thereby contributing to creating more inclusive and equitable societies.

4. Environmental Conservation (SDG 13 - Climate Action): Marpu Foundation actively engages in environmental conservation efforts aimed at mitigating climate change and preserving biodiversity. Corporations can enhance their CSR initiatives by partnering with Marpu in projects such as afforestation campaigns, sustainable agriculture practices, or renewable energy projects. By supporting these initiatives, companies can align with SDG 13 goals and demonstrate their commitment to environmental stewardship.

5. Healthcare Access (SDG 3 - Good Health and Well-being): Marpu Foundation works towards improving healthcare access and promoting health awareness in underserved communities. Collaborating with Marpu in healthcare projects allows corporations to contribute to SDG 3 by funding medical camps, establishing healthcare centers, or supporting vaccination drives. By investing in healthcare initiatives, companies can help reduce healthcare disparities and improve the overall well-being of communities.

In conclusion, partnering with the Marpu Foundation offers corporations a unique opportunity to bolster their CSR efforts while making meaningful contributions towards achieving the Sustainable Development Goals. Through strategic collaborations with Marpu, companies can address pressing social, economic, and environmental challenges, driving positive change and creating a more sustainable future for all.

[mindfulmusinghub]

Maximizing corporate social responsibility impact : partnering with Marpu Foundation for sustainable development goals:

Marpu Foundation an NGO, dedicated to harness individual potential for positive change through innovative, empathy-led projects promoting sustainability and social empowerment. Believing in the power of collective efforts and partnerships to be a beacon of transformation, to craft a future that's equitable, compassionate, and sustainable.

One of India’s youth activist, environmentalist and  leading social entrepreneur, Kadiri Raghu Vamshi – The Environment Man, known for his relentless quest of innovative solutions to social challenges. As the founder of Marpu Foundation, His enterprising leadership in environmental protection, sustainable development, and social advocacy is directed towards empowering citizens to embrace social responsibility. He was awarded India’s prestigious Chakra award in 2019 for his vision in empowering citizens to be socially responsible.

This blog delves into the symbiotic relationship integrating Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) efforts with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) to devise innovative solutions for critical societal challenges, Along with spotlighting the distictive approach of Marpu Foundation and its remarkable success stories.

In the realm of sustainable development, the synergy between CSR and SDGs emerges as a potent catalyst for positive transformation. Marpu Foundation spearheads initiatives in volunteering, sustainable development, and environmental conservation. Their unwavering support for women and advocacy for crucial causes amplify their impact nationwide. They works closely with many partners and reaches out widely to create big changes in communities all over India. This combination allows for a more coordinated and impactful approach to addressing social challenges at both local and global levels.

Through its unique approach and steadfast dedication, the Marpu Foundation exemplifies how businesses can magnify their social responsibility impact while advancing the global agenda for sustainable development. The NGO is truly making a significant impact in both Chennai and Pune, as well as in Jaipur and Surat through its multifaceted initiatives aimed at addressing various social and environmental challenges. As we forge ahead, let us draw inspiration from the triumphs of the Marpu Foundation :

The attempts of Marpu Foundation in Chennai have brought a significant change in addressing water quality, safety, and connectivity issues together with equipping more than 20 with solar power panels.

CSR projects in Chennai and Pune, showcases a commendable commitment to the society,   

Digital Literacy Program: by providing computer and internet training to 10,000 underprivileged children and youth, the foundation has not only equipped them with essential digital skills but also opened doors to online education and job opportunities.       

 Solar Power for Schools: Installing solar power panels in government schools didn’t just reduce electricity costs but also promotes environmental sustainability by decreasing carbon emissions and ensuring reliable electricity access.

Rainwater Harvesting Systems: Implemented rainwater harvesting systems in schools and community centres to combat water scarcity. This initiative not only ensures access to water for various purposes but also promotes water conservation which is crucial for sustainable development in cities like Chennai and Pune.

 Sustainable Livelihoods Program: Offered training and support for women and youth in entrepreneurship skills, helping them kickstart their own small businesses. This not only creates jobs but also boosts economic independence. By specifically targeting marginalized communities, the foundation is championing inclusive economic growth and uplifting livelihoods.

The Waste Management Initiatives: By annually diverting more than 500 tons of waste from landfills. Their emphasis on composting, recycling, and upcycling, to actively foster an economy and promote sustainable waste management practices. These efforts not merely lessen environmental harm but also stimulate innovation and resource efficiency, opening new lanes for progress.

In Jaipur, the focus is on improving educational opportunities for underprivileged communities. They introduce creative educational initiatives designed to meet various needs. They build partnerships with organizations and institutions to maximize their influence.

Businesses in Surat could consider engaging with Marpu Foundation for their CSR activities for several reasons like local impact and expertise experience in executing successful CSR initiatives offering businesses the opportunity to partner with an organization experienced in driving impactful projects. 

Overall, Marpu Foundation's holistic approach to social and environmental issues underscores their dedication to creating a better future for generations to come. Through their collaborative efforts and innovative solutions, they are leaving a lasting impact on communities across the nation inspiring others to take responsibility for the well-being of society and the environment.

By: Hiba Siyad

[sustainablecore]

Building a Sustainable City | Paving the Way for a Greener Future

What is sustainable city?

A sustainable city is an urban area that prioritizes environmentally-friendly practices, social inclusivity, and economic prosperity. It focuses on reducing carbon emissions, promoting renewable energy, efficient resource management, and creating a high quality of life for residents. Sustainable cities aim to balance development with environmental preservation, social equity, and long-term sustainability.