Every year, I look for important themes in sustainability that will have lasting impact on society, from glaring evidence of global megatrends to inspiring stories of corporate action. The year 2018 brought extreme change — in weather and environmental ecosystems, in political winds and power, and in the expectations of business. It also brought incredible clarity about the scale of our challenges and opportunities.
The Story of Sustainability in 2018: “We Have About 12 Years Left”
From drinking straws to dire scientific warnings.
December 27, 2018, Updated January 15, 2019
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Summary.
The year 2018 brought extreme change — in weather and environmental ecosystems, in political winds and power, and in the expectations of business. It also brought incredible clarity about the scale of our challenges and opportunities. Some of the biggest stories this year include a final (and dire) scientific warning on climate; very visible effects of extreme weather on cities and towns; the loss of climate leadership from the United States; the continued explosion of clean tech; and the sudden death of drinking straws.