In the 21st century, the world is in need of a new type of business leader, one who asks a different question than those of the past. Rather than focusing solely on financial gain, these leaders are interested in generating benefits for the community, culture, and the living world. This requires a shift towards a circular, regenerative economy that mimics the cycles of the living world, where waste from one process becomes food for another. To achieve this, we need to work together to create ecosystems of resource reuse, where plastics, textiles, and metals are repurposed again and again. By learning from nature, which has been thriving for 3.8 billion years, we can create an economy that runs on sunlight and never uses up resources. As a student, learning about these concepts can help you become a part of this movement towards a more sustainable and equitable future.

Coffee is a daily ritual for millions, but did you know that it can also serve as a model for sustainability? Enter the circular economy, a concept that has been gaining traction in recent years as a solution to the linear "take-make-dispose" approach to resource use. In a circular economy, resources are kept in use for as long as possible, creating a closed-loop system that minimizes waste and maximizes value. So, how does this apply to coffee? Let's start with the production process. Coffee is grown in over 60 countries, mostly in the Global South, and is often farmed in ways that are harmful to the environment and the people who cultivate it. However, some coffee companies are embracing the circular economy by adopting regenerative agriculture practices, which involve building soil health, conserving water, and promoting biodiversity. This approach not only benefits the planet but also improves the quality of the coffee itself. But the circular economy goes beyond just sustainable farming practices. Coffee waste, such as used grounds and pulp, can be repurposed into many things from fertilizer to furniture. And when it comes to packaging, some companies are experimenting with innovative solutions, such as reusable cups and biodegradable materials. Academic experts are at the forefront of this movement, with scholars like Walter Stahel and Ellen MacArthur advocating for a more circular approach to resource usage. Stahel, a Swiss economist, is widely credited with coining the term "circular economy" and has written extensively on the topic. MacArthur, a former professional sailor, founded the Ellen MacArthur Foundation, a non-profit dedicated to accelerating the transition to a circular economy. Remember, the circular economy is not just about coffee - it's a framework that can be applied to any industry or resource. By exploring this topic, you'll gain a deeper understanding of how we can create a more sustainable and equitable world.

As more businesses pledge to reduce greenhouse-gas emissions, the demand for carbon credits could increase by a factor of 15 or more by 2030, making the market worth upward of $50 billion. But the current market is fragmented and complex, with limited pricing data and questionable emissions reductions. Learn how market participants and other constituencies can address these issues to scale up the voluntary carbon market and direct private financing to climate-action projects.

Want to learn how you can contribute to solving the global energy crisis? This book provides an objective analysis of the numbers and outlines a plan for change on both personal and international levels. With case studies on nuclear energy, sustainable fossil fuels, and sharing renewable power, this informative reference debunks misinformation and encourages readers to make individual changes that will benefit the world at large. Discover how you can make a positive impact and be part of the solution with this enlightening read. Recommended for students and professionals interested in environmental sustainability, energy policy, and global issues, this book offers a comprehensive analysis of the sustainable energy crisis and possible solutions. With a focus on personal responsibility and international cooperation, the book provides valuable insights for individuals, communities, and policymakers alike. It is also relevant for those interested in fields such as engineering, economics, and political science, as it offers a nuanced understanding of the technical and political challenges involved in transitioning to sustainable energy. Whether you are an activist, a student, or a concerned citizen, this book is a must-read for anyone looking to make a positive impact on the planet.

Sustainability is a crucial issue in our modern world, and entrepreneurs and businesses can play a significant role in promoting and implementing sustainable practices. With the help of innovative ideas and technologies, these organizations are leading the way towards a greener future. Did you know that by 2050, it is estimated that the global population will reach 9.7 billion, with 66% of the population living in urban areas? This means that our cities will face enormous environmental, social and economic challenges, making sustainability more critical than ever. Leading academic in the field, Dr. Jane Goodall, states that "Only when the last tree has died and the last river has been poisoned and the last fish has been caught will we realize we cannot eat money." This highlights the crucial importance of sustainable practices in all areas of our lives, including business. One example of a sustainable business is Patagonia, a clothing company known for its commitment to environmental and social responsibility. Not only do they use sustainable materials in their products, but they also donate 1% of their sales to environmental causes and support grassroots activism. In addition to businesses, there are also sustainable innovations being developed by entrepreneurs. One such example is Solar Impulse, a solar-powered plane that completed a round-the-world flight in 2016, demonstrating the potential of renewable energy. A key concept related to sustainability is the principle of the triple bottom line, which refers to a business's social, environmental and financial responsibilities. The goal is to balance these three aspects and create a sustainable future for all. Sustainability is ultimately a shared challenge that requires the collaboration of businesses, entrepreneurs and individuals. With innovative ideas and sustainable practices, we can create a greener future for generations to come.

The world is constantly changing, and as high school students, it is essential to be aware of the problems that need solutions. Vinisha Umashankar, a 14-year-old from India, noticed the pollution caused by charcoal usage in the metal irons of street vendors and decided to take action. She designed an ironing cart powered by solar energy, eliminating the use of charcoal, deforestation, air pollution, and respiratory diseases caused by the traditional method. Learning about solar energy and sustainable solutions like Vinisha's can benefit you not only intellectually but practically as well. By exploring these concepts further, you can contribute to creating a better world for yourself and the generations to come.

The fashion industry contributes 4% of global greenhouse-gas emissions, emitting as much as France, Germany, and the UK combined. McKinsey research shows that the industry is on track to overshoot its 1.5-degree pathway to mitigate climate change by almost twofold. However, almost 90% of the measures required for accelerated abatement would cost less than $50 per metric ton of GHG emissions abated. Discover how the entire fashion value chain can drive decarbonization and bring about real and lasting change for the better in the industry.

Electric vehicles have come a long way since their inception in the late 19th century. While they were once the preferred mode of transportation due to their efficiency and reliability, the high cost of batteries and the discovery of oil reserves led to a decline in their popularity. However, with the growing concern over climate change, electric vehicles are making a comeback. They are now more cost-effective, efficient, and widely available than ever before. Not only do they accelerate faster than gas-powered cars, but they also save drivers money in the long run. With governments around the world focusing on reducing carbon emissions, it's expected that electric vehicles will soon replace gas-powered ones entirely. As a high school student, learning about the history and advancements in electric vehicles can provide valuable insight into the intersection of technology and environmentalism, and inspire you to think about how you can contribute to a sustainable future.

Imperial researchers have found that integrating solar and battery power in refugee camps can drastically reduce fuel expenditure and emissions while also boosting the local economy. The system, funded in part by a grant from the UKRI Global Challenges and Research Fund, could provide reliable access to electricity for more people. Find out how this innovative solution can improve the lives of displaced people.

Have you ever thought about what happens to your old electronic devices when you replace them with new ones? E-waste, also known as electronic waste, refers to discarded electronic devices, such as smartphones, computers, televisions, and other electronic gadgets. This type of waste is becoming a significant global problem, as it contains hazardous materials and is difficult to recycle. According to a report by the United Nations, the world generates around 50 million tons of e-waste every year, with only a small fraction of it being recycled properly. This not only causes harm to the environment but also means that valuable resources, such as precious metals, are being wasted. Enter the concept of "cash for e-waste." This idea aims to incentivize people to properly dispose of their e-waste by paying them for it. This approach has been studied and advocated by leading academics in the field, such as Dr. Kate Armitage and Professor Eric Williams, who argue that it could be a crucial step towards a more sustainable future. By properly recycling e-waste, not only are we reducing harm to the environment but also recovering valuable materials. For example, a single computer can contain up to several grams of gold, which can be recovered and sold. This not only helps to reduce the environmental impact of e-waste but also creates economic opportunities, particularly in developing countries where e-waste is often exported. E-waste is a complex and pressing issue, but by exploring it and learning more, you can help make a difference. Who knows, you might even uncover some hidden treasures in the process!

Can economic growth and climate goals be reconciled? McKinsey's research suggests a tenfold increase in carbon productivity is needed by 2050, comparable to the Industrial Revolution. The cost of this "carbon revolution" is manageable, but without it, we face stark consequences. Explore how we can capture the lowest-cost abatement opportunities to achieve critical emissions targets and avoid a major drop in lifestyle.

Are you passionate about making a positive impact on the world? Do you want to help companies and organizations reduce their environmental footprint and operate in a more sustainable way? If so, then a career as a Sustainability Consultant might be perfect for you! As a Sustainability Consultant, you'll work with a wide variety of clients to identify and implement sustainable practices and solutions. You'll help companies reduce their carbon footprint, conserve resources, and improve their overall environmental performance. You'll also help them comply with regulations and meet sustainability standards. One great thing about being a Sustainability Consultant is that you get to work on a wide range of projects. For example, you might work with a restaurant to help them reduce food waste and switch to more sustainable packaging. Or, you might work with a large corporation to help them implement renewable energy sources and reduce their greenhouse gas emissions. To be successful in this field, you'll need to have a strong understanding of sustainability principles and practices. You'll also need to be able to communicate effectively with clients and stakeholders, and be able to think creatively to come up with innovative solutions. Typical duties for a Sustainability Consultant might include conducting sustainability audits, developing sustainability plans and strategies, conducting research on sustainability issues, and providing training and education to clients and stakeholders. There are many areas of specialization within the field of sustainability consulting, including renewable energy, waste management, sustainable agriculture, and green building. You might also work in related fields such as environmental policy or corporate social responsibility. To become a Sustainability Consultant, you'll typically need a bachelor's degree in a related field such as environmental science, sustainability, or engineering. Some popular undergraduate programs and majors include Environmental Studies, Sustainable Business, and Renewable Energy. Helpful personal attributes for a career in sustainability consulting include strong analytical skills, excellent communication skills, and a passion for sustainability and environmental stewardship. Job prospects for Sustainability Consultants are strong, with many opportunities available in both the public and private sectors. Some notable employers in this field include consulting firms such as Deloitte and PwC, as well as government agencies and non-profit organizations. In conclusion, if you're passionate about sustainability and want to make a positive impact on the world, a career as a Sustainability Consultant might be the perfect fit for you. With a wide range of projects and opportunities available, and a strong job outlook, this is a field worth exploring further!

Brace yourselves for impact! The Great Disruption by Paul Gilding is a wake-up call to the impending crisis of climate change. Forget carbon footprints and fossil fuels, we have reached the end of Economic Growth 1.0, where we lived beyond our planet's means. In the coming decades, we will see loss, suffering and conflict as we pay our planetary overdraft, but also humanity's best qualities: compassion, innovation, resilience and adaptability. Gilding offers a roadmap to fight and win the "One Degree War" to prevent catastrophic warming of the earth and replace our addiction to growth with an ethic of sustainability. Recommended for environmentalists, economists, entrepreneurs and anyone concerned with the future of our planet. The Great Disruption by Paul Gilding is a must-read for those who want to understand the challenges posed by climate change and the opportunities for a sustainable future. Gilding's well-informed polemic offers a stark and unflinching look at the crisis humanity faces, but also a deeply optimistic message. He argues that the coming decades will bring out the best humanity can offer, with new companies reshaping our economy and a new ethic of sustainability replacing our addiction to growth. This book is essential reading for anyone who wants to be part of the solution to the greatest challenge of our time.

Scientists at MIT have developed a process that could significantly reduce the cost of using carbon capture to fight global warming by drawing CO2 out of seawater. The process could appeal to small nations whose economies rely on tourism, aquaculture, and fishing industries that could be severely damaged by climate change. Another company, Captura Corp., is also working on a similar process and has received financial support from Saudi Arabian Oil Co. and a $1 million grant from a carbon removal XPRIZE competition.

Coffee capsules - environmentally unfriendly or misunderstood? A study by the University of Quebec debunks the notion that coffee pods are wasteful and highlights their potential as a more sustainable way to enjoy your daily cup of joe.

Are you passionate about the environment and curious about the impact of climate change on our planet? Then a degree in Climate Science could be the perfect fit for you! Climate Science is an exciting and rapidly evolving field that encompasses a range of disciplines, from atmospheric science to ecology and beyond. One of the most appealing aspects of studying Climate Science is the opportunity to make a real difference in the world. As a Climate Scientist, you'll be at the forefront of efforts to understand and mitigate the effects of climate change. You'll study everything from the causes and consequences of global warming to the ways in which we can reduce our carbon footprint and protect the planet for future generations. There are countless fascinating areas of research within the field of Climate Science. For example, you might study the impact of rising sea levels on coastal communities or investigate the ways in which climate change is affecting agriculture and food security around the world. You might also explore the latest innovations in renewable energy technology or examine the role of policy and advocacy in shaping global climate action. At the undergraduate level, students typically take a range of modules that cover the fundamentals of Climate Science, including meteorology, oceanography, and geology. As you progress through your degree, you'll have the opportunity to specialize in areas such as climate modeling, climate policy, or environmental management. And with a degree in Climate Science, you'll be well-equipped to pursue a range of exciting careers in fields such as environmental consulting, renewable energy, or climate policy. Some of the most exciting potential employers for Climate Science graduates include government agencies such as the Environmental Protection Agency or the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, as well as private-sector companies like Tesla and Google. And with the growing urgency of the climate crisis, there's never been a better time to pursue a career in this field. To succeed in Climate Science, you'll need to be curious, analytical, and passionate about making a difference in the world. Strong skills in math and science are also essential, as is a deep interest in the natural world and a commitment to sustainability. So if you're ready to take on one of the most pressing challenges of our time, a degree in Climate Science could be the perfect choice for you!

Climate change is costing us more than we think! A new study by UC Berkeley and Resources for the Future estimates that the social cost of carbon is over three times higher than the current value used by the US federal government. This means that reducing greenhouse gas emissions could bring greater social and economic benefits.

The US power grid is the world's largest machine, containing more than 7,300 electricity-generating plants, linked by some 11 million kilometers of powerlines, transformers, and substations. Power grid operators maintain a delicate balance between energy supply and demand, ensuring that their components work in unison and maintain a constant frequency throughout the grid. Power grids contain a mix of carbon-free and carbon-emitting energy sources, and researchers are experimenting with unique storage solutions to make full use of renewable energy sources. By shifting energy use to the times when there's clean electricity to spare, load flexibility can help flatten the peaks in demand, reducing the need for non-renewables. Smart devices like air conditioners, water heaters, and electric vehicle chargers can be implemented to decrease emissions by around 20%. Learning about power grids and renewable energy sources can help students understand the importance of balancing energy supply and demand and inspire them to explore ways to reduce their carbon footprint.

Did you know that there is a number that may hold the key to our planet's survival? It's called the social cost of carbon, and it represents the long-term economic damage caused by each additional ton of carbon dioxide emitted into the atmosphere. While this number may seem obscure, its impact is immense, and understanding it is crucial to addressing the looming threat of climate change. So, what is the social cost of carbon? Put simply, it's the monetary value of the negative impacts that carbon emissions have on society, including damage to human health, property, and the environment. It's calculated based on a wide range of factors, including projected temperature increases, sea level rise, and changes in agricultural productivity. According to some estimates, the social cost of carbon could be as high as $220 per ton by the end of the century. But the social cost of carbon isn't just a theoretical concept – it has real-world implications. For example, it's used to determine the costs and benefits of climate policies, such as carbon taxes and emissions regulations. In fact, some of the world's most influential economists and policymakers have called for the use of the social cost of carbon in decision-making, including former U.S. Treasury Secretary Lawrence Summers and Nobel Memorial Prize laureate Dr. Joseph Stiglitz. One of the biggest challenges in estimating the social cost of carbon is its complex and dynamic nature. For example, the impacts of carbon emissions are felt differently in different parts of the world, and they can have cascading effects that are difficult to predict. Nevertheless, researchers and experts continue to refine their estimates and develop new approaches to understanding the social cost of carbon. Some of the leading academics in this field include Dr. Nicholas Stern, an economist and author of the influential Stern Review on the Economics of Climate Change; Richard Tol, an environmental economist who has written extensively on the social cost of carbon; and William Nordhaus, a Nobel Memorial Prize laureate who has developed some of the most widely cited models for estimating the social cost of carbon. In conclusion, the social cost of carbon may be the most important number you've never heard of, but its significance cannot be overstated. By understanding this concept and its implications, high school students can become informed and engaged citizens who are better equipped to address the urgent challenge of climate change.

In the next 20 years, the world will undergo significant changes, and it's essential to understand the academic concepts that will shape our future. The transcript highlights some of the key concepts, including the rise of Africa's economy, China's growing influence, the impact of AI on Europe's financial services, and the increasing value of data. Understanding these concepts will not only help you stay informed but also provide you with practical benefits. For instance, learning about the rise of solar panels could inspire you to explore renewable energy sources, while understanding the value of data could help you develop skills in data analysis. By exploring these concepts through reading, reflection, and self-directed projects, you can become an independent learner who is well-equipped to navigate the changing world.