Students' thoughts on Sustainability Day
Every year, all Master's programmes kick-off with the half-day "Global Transitions". The day is based on the increased understanding, among both states and the business community, that the transformation towards resource- and climate-efficient economies is too slow. This year, the focus was on how the pandemic impacts our abilities to address the climate crisis and achieve the Sustainable Development Goals. We asked the students Martin Bergström and Alexander Collantes Taqueda for their experiences from the day.
Alexander Collantes Taqueda
Programme: Master of Science in Logistics and Transport Management
What did you think was most interesting about this day?
The most interesting thing was regarding the responsibility for the transformation to sustainability, how it is being transferred to entrepreneurs and investors as costs and risks have been decreasing thanks to recent developments.
What surprised you the most during the Sustainability day Global Transitions?
That major climate changes are inevitable and irreversible, according to the IPCC (Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change), but as Johan Kuylenstierna said, there are still ways to slow down, or to stop, some events. And that we as a society, need to keep moving in that, more sustainable direction.
Why do you think it is important to make the sustainability perspective a part of education?
As students we can introduce a new mindset from the academy to the society, from affecting the attitudes that are taken every day, to contributing to reducing social gaps, positively impacting the fulfillment of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDG).
Political decisions can improve education and living conditions, something that is really important for the sustainable development of societies. We have to show that we live on a planet with limited resources. The change of mentality to achieve these transformations will come from ceasing to being distracted by only looking at the numbers being achieved, and instead starting to focus on the actions, beliefs and behaviors day to day.
How do you think that questions regarding sustainability will affect you and your work after graduation?
After graduation, in the corporate or non-corporate world, we will be closer to the decisions that will facilitate the changes. Being closer to the questions “How will the profits of the year be invested?” and “How will the public resources be used?”. We will try to contribute to the development of a fairer, more sustainable society. I, particularly, am very interested in contributing to the construction of this.
Martin Bergström
Programme: Master of Science in Economics
What did you think was most interesting about this day?
During today's lectures, you got a good insight into current problems, but also the opportunities. This included the opportunity for individuals and companies to contribute through investments. It was interesting to see how the demand for green investments has increased among private investors, but also among giants such as BlackRock.
What surprised you the most during Sustainability day Global Transitions?
Hearing about the radical cost reductions achieved for solar energy since 2009.
Why do you think it is important to make the sustainability perspective a part of education?
On one hand, I think this is important for spreading awareness. How do I as an individual in society influence? What are the consequences of my actions? In addition, I see it as most likely that the education will lead me to a workplace characterized by a focus on sustainability, and then it can be a great advantage to already be well informed in the area.
How do you think that questions regarding sustainability will affect you and your work after graduation?
I think first and foremost it will be the basis for most things in a future workplace. With an active sustainability mindset, I believe that you will be at the forefront of dealing with problems that require new and more adapted solutions. In addition, I also believe that the solutions will be more well thought out from a long-term perspective.