These global goals are a set of 17 commitments made by 193 of the world's leaders to end extreme poverty, inequality and climate change by 2030. Seven years on, we have made progress, but there is still work to be done, and the goals are more important than ever. The climate crisis. Ensuring no one goes hungry. Human rights abuses. Extreme poverty. Problems of this scale can be overwhelming, but the Global Goals (also known as the Sustainable Development Goals or SDGs) are the solution to tackling them. You can read through each goal, it's intentions and how you can take action here.
Both the University and Union look to these goals throughout our sustainability efforts. Did you know that the University responds and submits an annual report to the SDG Accord every year? This is where Universities and Colleges can choose to join the scheme to monitor and action their sustainability efforts to ensure a 'collective response' to the importance of education in supporting the SDGs.
The Union also follows a similar scheme in NUS' Green Impact. This accreditation scheme sees the Union team ensure we are doing absolutely everything we can to support the SDG's and to up our sustainability game! Last year, we achieved 'Excellent' accreditation. This year, we're aiming to level up and achieve this again but with much higher points! [watch this space].
Every positive action you take, no matter how small, has the power to make a difference. Supporting a 'clean the oceans' campaign, switching to greener products, standing up for justice, and reminding your leaders of the promise of the Global Goals are all good places to start. The Be the Change Initiative provides an opportunity for all of us to better “walk the talk” when it comes to the SDGs. This Initiative guides and encourages us to live more sustainable at work and at home by changing our consumption patterns, using active transport such as cycling, and buying local foods. Everyone is welcome to participate. Every little step helps – inform your family, your friends and your community about simple actions they can take in their daily lives. To get you thinking, check out this Lazy Person's Guide to Saving the World from the United Nations.
Follow everything that is going on for Sustainability Week on the What's On calendar and on social media. Make sure you follow @leedsartsunion & @conscious_creatives for info!