Sustainability refers to the idea of ensuring the longevity and health of systems, including social, economic, and environmental ones, so we continue to function and thrive indefinitely.
Policies that promote sustainability and equity in an aging world can foster solidarity across generations and communities.
The term “sustainability” can be used in several contexts.
These definitions are interrelated and often overlapping, meaning sustainability in one area often depends on sustainability in another. The overall goal is a balanced system where we live and work that respects environmental boundaries, social equity, and economic stability.
Sustainable Development Goals
The Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) are a set of 17 global objectives adopted by the United Nations. They aim to address urgent global challenges and achieve sustainable development by 2030. The goals encompass a wide range of areas, including poverty eradication, zero hunger, good health and well-being, quality education, gender equality, clean water and sanitation, affordable and clean energy, decent work and economic growth, industry innovation and infrastructure, reduced inequalities, sustainable cities and communities, responsible consumption and production, climate action, life below water, life on land, peace, justice, and strong institutions, and partnerships for the goals. The SDGs provide a comprehensive framework for a more equitable, sustainable, and prosperous future for all.
Language Sustainability: The sustainability of languages, also known as language preservation or revitalization, is about ensuring the survival and ongoing use of languages that are in danger of becoming extinct. This concept is underpinned by the belief that language diversity, much like biodiversity, is vital to human culture. Each language is a vessel for unique knowledge systems, cultural values, and historical narratives.
Music, a universal language, has woven itself into the fabric of human culture and history, bearing witness to our collective joys, sorrows, and dreams. But perhaps less often celebrated is music's enduring role in championing sustainability. Over the centuries, artists and musicians have been practitioners and proponents of sustainable living, utilizing their creativity and influence to inspire and educate. In times of antiquity, the materials for instruments were sustainably sourced, with each drum, flute, or string instrument bearing the mark of nature’s gift. Back then, concerts and gatherings were community-driven, minimizing waste and promoting social cohesion.
In more recent history, folk and rock musicians have used their art to raise awareness about environmental and social issues, their powerful lyrics echoing in the hearts of their listeners. Today, this commitment to sustainability in music persists and evolves, with artists exploring eco-friendly production methods, fair economic models, and using their platforms to advocate for a more sustainable world. At its core, music holds a mirror to our societies, reflecting our strides towards sustainability and reminding us of the harmonious relationship we strive to uphold with the world around us.
The concept of sustainability has often focused heavily on the environment, while music and arts have been areas of lesser focus for many addressing crisis. Here are a few examples oh the concept of sustainability in artistic and musical communities:
Digital Justice and Sustainability
Digital justice refers to the equal and fair distribution of technology and internet resources. In our increasingly digital world, access to the internet is crucial for education, employment, and participation in society. However, not everyone has equal access to digital resources, which can result in digital divides based on socioeconomic status, location, age, and other factors.