In today’s world, the significance of a sustainable future cannot be overstated. While individuals play a crucial role, it’s the bigger-scale organizations such as corporations and governments that possess the power to effect global change.

Recognizing this, it’s the collective efforts of individuals, government and corporation for a sustainable environment that are key to unlocking a better world. This article explores the roles of these organizations and emphasizes the pivotal importance of collaboration in achieving sustainability goals.

Governments and corporations as catalysts for change

Individual efforts alone are often not enough to combat the magnitude of environmental challenges society faces on a daily basis. Although actions such as recycling or reducing energy consumption are helpful, big organizations contribute a more visible impact.

Given their extensive resources, influence, and reach, it’s essential for these entities to make tangible efforts in driving the transformation toward a greener world. Setting an example by prioritizing eco-conscious policies and sustainability initiatives can inspire a ripple effect in others to do the same. Here are some ways how.

Developing sustainability-centric industry standards

One step that both government and corporation for sustainable environment can enforce is by implementing new industry standards focused on sustainability. These can cover everything from public space planning, materials handling, household-centric systems, private property landscaping, and more. 

Developing national standards with sustainability in mind results in a bigger and more lasting impact. Moreover, long-term investments like infrastructure and buildings are less likely to become hazardous over the years. It also prevents wasted resources while elevating ecological consciousness among private and corporate sectors. 

Leading an example

In fact, some countries, cities, and municipalities have already been making strides in improving this aspect. California, for example, has long-implemented a ban on plastic bags in 2007. As a result, the city has witnessed a rise in the use of reusable bags and a significant decrease in plastic consumption. 

The Philippines has also taken an active step in the right direction, with the recent passing of the House Bill banning single-use plastics. The ban covers the prohibition of plastic disposables such as plastic bags, plastic straws, plastic utensils, and styrofoam.

The local governments of Bacolod City, Negros Occidental, Baguio, El Nido, and Boracay are a few examples that have been leading the campaign against plastic pollution by banning single-use plastics. Cities from the National Capital Region that followed the same efforts include Paranaque, Las Pinas, Pasay, Muntinlupa, Makati, Pasig, and Quezon City. 

The ban covers plastic disposables such as plastic bags, plastic straws, plastic utensils, and styrofoam. Muntinlupa’s ban was particularly significant considering the eastern border traverses the edge of Laguna de Bay, the largest lake in the country. Meanwhile, Quezon City has reportedly recovered over six million pieces of plastic bags following the ban. While establishments were encouraged to implement green fund projects. This also encouraged businesses to use alternative packaging to plastic in business operations. 

Combination of public-private efforts

Combining efforts between the public and private sectors can directly contribute to greater sustainability. Government agencies can incentivize collaboration between public and private businesses, aligning efforts towards eco-centric goals. 

Initiating collaborative efforts at the government level establishes credibility and trust. This encourages the stakeholders and the public to value sustainability incentives. Besides this, governments can also facilitate connections between and within sectors. Creating a network that promotes collective action and knowledge exchange. 

Being an eco-friendly business also comes with plenty of benefits for the enterprise whilst driving impactful sustainable initiatives at the same time.

Shifting to zero-carbon energy sources

The presence of greenhouse gases exacerbates global warming, which then leads to a host of interconnected problems. One of the most effective solutions to this is transitioning away from carbon-based energy sources. Shifting to alternative and non-carbon energy sources helps create significant leaps toward a greener future.

For this reason, corporations can invest in renewable energy sources. This is to power their everyday operations like solar panels or wind farms. On the other hand, governments can encourage these investments with the help of incentives and subsidies for enterprises that prioritize clean energy. There can also be penalties or sanctions for companies. In the case they exceed a certain amount of carbon emissions or for failing to meet the minimum implementation of renewable energy.

Promoting a people-centered approach

The complex challenge of climate change ultimately demands collaborative efforts from organizations and individuals in society. In fact, research demonstrates that people are more willing to make changes in their respective lives if they view this as part of a wider national effort to reduce emissions. Participatory forms of public engagement like citizen assemblies or online deliberation, immerses people in problem-solving and taking action for sustainability. There should be ample support for individuals and communities in encouraging the transition towards eco-friendly practices, such as funding and better programs.

Take the step towards a greener future with Oikos

Combining steps taken by individuals, government and corporation for a sustainable environment is essential for achieving a thriving planet. 
In this collective effort, it’s also important to recognize pioneering brands such as Oikos Sustainable Solutions, the first brand in the Philippines to receive an Environmental Technology Verification (ETV) from DOST for its cassava and corn bags for being plastic-free, biodegradable, and compostable. Oikos is committed to providing innovative and environmentally-friendly solutions to drive meaningful change toward a sustainable future. Choose sustainability now with Oikos and be part of the change by clicking the link to learn more.