The first ever Rio Summit (held in 1992) was pregnant with symbolic meaning- 172 governments participated, with 108 sending their heads of state or government, and Some 2,400 representatives of non-governmental organizations (NGOs) attended.
Today, it achieves a sense of direction towards something new, in largely unchartered waters. The notion of sustainable development will be recasted, broadened, redefined. In short, this phrase will probably be the driving force of the 21st century, molding the sphere in which politics and businesses operate. There's hope yet. Sustainable Development used to be a sleep-inducing phrase, largely (or solely) associated with that elusive concept of 'going green'. Not anymore- it's now charged, alive, well defined. It includes aiming for the eradication of poverty and social inclusion. What's so great about Rio+20? Well, for one, this idea of sustainable development has already made some changes in way benchmarks are determined- yes, even in the largely competitive world of business. Accountability of governments and businesses are emphasized, and systems implemented to ensure their participation in this new initiative. "Sustainability Reporting" will be taking its place in the business arena. The creation of ambitious aspirations echo the past- except now, there are hard deadlines. The Millennium Development Goals, designed to alleviate poverty, has already galvanized organisations around that task. Finally we see some drive!
Today, it achieves a sense of direction towards something new, in largely unchartered waters. The notion of sustainable development will be recasted, broadened, redefined. In short, this phrase will probably be the driving force of the 21st century, molding the sphere in which politics and businesses operate. There's hope yet. Sustainable Development used to be a sleep-inducing phrase, largely (or solely) associated with that elusive concept of 'going green'. Not anymore- it's now charged, alive, well defined. It includes aiming for the eradication of poverty and social inclusion. What's so great about Rio+20? Well, for one, this idea of sustainable development has already made some changes in way benchmarks are determined- yes, even in the largely competitive world of business. Accountability of governments and businesses are emphasized, and systems implemented to ensure their participation in this new initiative. "Sustainability Reporting" will be taking its place in the business arena. The creation of ambitious aspirations echo the past- except now, there are hard deadlines. The Millennium Development Goals, designed to alleviate poverty, has already galvanized organisations around that task. Finally we see some drive!
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| Representatives discuss |
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| Countries involved in Rio+20 |
This has implications for the mining industry as well- in fact, especially for the mining industry. Mining has received some serious bad press over the decades, owing to a slew of unfortunate events and the knowledge of the scarcity of resources. "Sustainable Development", therefore, can either be the phrase from hell or a blessing in disguise. Responsible and sustainable mining would be the first step. You now know why its important-we adapt to the 21st century, not resist it. Push aside all misgivings; its inconvenience pays off in the long run. Being part of a powerful initiative that changes the way your community sees you is more than important; it's necessary. In short, it can be a blessing in disguise- adapt to it, make it a priority. You'll be an integral part of the trend that reaches out to save the environment. That makes the Earth a better place for living.
More so than just that, we all have a moral obligation to contribute or at least replenish what we take away, to carry out our duties to the environment and the community around us. As stated in the Rio+20 common statement: We are consuming resources faster than the Earth can regenerate them, and producing more waste and pollution than the Earth can absorb. There is scientific consensus that Planet Earth is rapidly approaching its boundaries of a healthy and safe environment conducive to a life of dignity.
More than just being the world's biggest UN Conference in history, this meeting has important consequences for everyone, especially businesses around the globe. We need to change the way we see things, and to make a difference.
Here are some things to check out:
Interesting articles for your information:
And more about Indonesia taking the lead!
- Indonesia hosts a preparatory meeting towards the UN environmental summit
- Indonesia spearheads in global initiatives to address sustainable development issue
