As Earth Day approaches, we are reminded of the pressing need to address the environmental crises threatening our planet.
Climate change, biodiversity loss, pollution and inequality are intensifying. Yet we continue to burn fossil fuels and increase our emissions, destroy ecosystems and throw away two billion tonnes of waste annually.
These problems are rooted in society’s deepest assumptions and the structures we have created around them. However, a recent United Nations report titled Interconnected Disaster Risks: Turning Over a New Leaf, introduces the Theory of Deep Change, which calls for a fundamental shift in how we perceive and interact with our environment.
The report highlights that current sustainability efforts often focus on incremental changes within existing systems, such as recycling or conservation donations. While valuable, these measures are somewhat superficial since they do not tackle the root causes of environmental degradation – overconsumption, waste and the disconnect between humans and nature.The lead author of the report emphasizes the necessity of questioning our societal values and assumptions, particularly the prioritization of convenience and consumerism over ecological well-being.
The Theory of Deep Change advocates for transformative shifts in both individual behaviours and systemic structures. It encourages us to re-imagine concepts like waste, viewing resources as valuable and finite rather than disposable. This approach aligns with the experiences of communities like Kamikatsu in Japan, where residents have nearly eliminated the notion of waste through dedicated efforts and a cultural shift toward resourcefulness.
The theory also calls for a re-evaluation of values such as individualism and materialism, which often underpin practices that harm the environment. By fostering a collective mindset that prioritizes sustainability and interconnectedness, we can develop a more harmonious relationship with our planet.
As residents of Salmon Arm and the broader Shuswap region, we are not immune to these global challenges. Our communities are experiencing the impacts of climate change, from increased wildfire risks, to shifting weather patterns affecting agriculture. However, we also must lead by example. This Earth Day, let us commit to Turning Over a New Leaf. We can contribute to a global movement towards resilience and renewal by embracing sustainable practices, supporting policies that protect our environment, and fostering a culture of conservation.
Together, we can ensure that future generations inherit a livable planet capable of sustaining life and prosperity. And be sure to visit our booth in the Salmon Arm Earth Day Gathering, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. on April 26 at the Ross Street Plaza.
Julia Beatty chairs the Shuswap Climate Action Society
