In a nutshell, ENVR 430 has redefined my understanding of change (especially related to sustainability).
In the past, I found it gratifying knowing I was "doing my part" (recycling, conserving water, reducing meat consumption, etc.). A part of me thought that if everyone individually adopted micro-sustainable habits, we could solve climate change. I have learned about the incredible power of system change!
Naturally, at times, it is daunting to tackle large, complex adaptive systems. However, by exploring specific interventions (e.g. laws, grants, subsidies) every week, the solution feels achievable and empowering.
And the best part is: tackling problems from system-levels change and individual action are not mutually exclusive - there is a place for both. Supplement in smaller victories when larger issues become too tumultuous and abstract :)
Thank you, everyone - Kai, Dana and all you fellow colleagues! It was been a wonderful learning journey!
Hey Inez!
I relate a lot to what you say about the challenges of understanding complex systemic problems. I wrestled with this throughout the course. How do we know if our suggested interventions are feasible or realistic? I'm a very detail-oriented person, so "tumultuous and abstract" issues can quickly become overwhelming!
Like you say, however, there is also a place for individual-level change. Going forward, I will keep this fact in mind.
Hi Inez! People find systemic solutions so daunting! I think we should relentlessly advocate for systemic solutions until they fix something! Learning so much about how we can advocate better for these solutions has been very empowering