This is the third and final article in this series. Read on to discover what to do to meet sustainable development goals (SDGs) 12-17.
12. Responsible consumption and production
By 2050, the equivalent of almost three planets could be required to sustain current lifestyles. That’s why goal 12 promotes sustainable consumption and production patterns.
What can you do?
- Reuse, repair and recycle your belongings where possible
- Consider borrowing the things you only use from time to time instead of buying them
- Educate yourself about sustainable development and talk to others about what you learn
13. Climate action
Global emissions of carbon dioxide (CO2) have increased by almost 50% since 1990. This goal aims to combat climate change and its impacts.
What can you do?
- Eat more plants and less meat and dairy
- Walk and cycle instead of driving where possible
- Reduce your air and sea travel
- Get involved in activism and demand that leaders take action
14. Life below water
Did you know that over three billion people depend on marine and coastal biodiversity for their livelihoods? This goal aims to conserve the oceans, seas and marine resources.
What can you do?
- Limit the amount of fish you eat
- Only buy sustainable and responsibly sourced fish and seafood
- Take part in beach, canal and river clean-ups
15. Life on land
Forests are home to more than 80% of the world’s animals, plants and insects. Goal 15 aims to protect and restore terrestrial ecosystems, sustainably manage forests, combat desertification, and halt and reverse land degradation and biodiversity loss.
What can you do?
- Encourage wildlife to your garden by adding bee hotels and water features
- Avoid buying products made from endangered wildlife such as ivory or tortoise shell
- Instead, support companies and trusts that protect and restore nature
16. Peace, justice and strong institutions
In 2018, the number of people fleeing war and persecution exceeded 70 million. Goal 16 aims to promote peaceful and inclusive societies through sustainable development and access to justice, and build effective and accountable institutions at all levels.
What can you do?
- Stand up for human rights by supporting institutions that have people’s best interests at heart
- Support a refugee charity
- If you run a business, comply with laws and partner with organisations that meet international standards
17. Partnerships for the goals
Achieving the SDGs could open up over nine trillion market opportunities and create 380 million new jobs by 2030. The final goal aims to strengthen the means of implementation and revitalise the global partnership for sustainable development.
I don’t know about you but I’ve enjoyed learning about the SDGs. But the world is not on track to meet these goals by 2030. Progress has been slow, and, thanks to the pandemic, some of the goals have reversed. But that just means we need a renewed global commitment. And you can be involved.
Wondering what to do to meet sustainable development goals? The most powerful thing is educate yourself about what you can do about sustainable development goals, and share what you’ve learned with others. I’ve learned to be curious about what the goals mean for my local community. And I’ve decided to give my time and skills to organisations working towards making them a reality.
If a particular goal speaks to you, Global Giving has devised a way for you to donate to charities and organisations that support it.
I’ve learned that we each have a role to play if we’re going to achieve these goals. We need awareness, action and accountability from global leaders. And if we all work together, anything is possible.