OneWorld.net (U.S.)

The first time I attended a United Nations meeting as an observer, I had no idea where to go. Multiple caucus meetings at the UN’s Commission on Sustainable Development were set up simultaneously for youth, women, environmental, business, and other stakeholder groups. It seemed very disjunctive; little opportunity existed for me to contribute as a whole person—as a woman, a youth, an environmental advocate, and a businessperson. Eventually, I figured out that, as CEO of my own technology business and winner of the Youth Employment Summit’s award for sustainable business innovation, I belonged in the Business Caucus. As I sat there listening to business representatives strategize on their own agenda, it dawned on me that my presence created a crucial communications bridge. Having an open, creative mind not yet corrupted by age made this possible. My ability to contribute to this meeting was not in spite of, but because of, my youth.

Across all continents, backgrounds, and occupations, the youth of the world stand united on this key point: decision-makers cannot adequately address global sustainability issues without consulting young people. The youth of today must live with the results of action—or inaction—on long-term problems like climate change. This makes young people the most interested and affected stakeholders at the table. Once leaders embrace this truism, delegates who take time to consult youth representatives find them pragmatic, informed, and open-minded. One example of the refreshing approach youth bring to the global warming debate is in their embrace of sustainable business practices.

As a Board Member of SustainUS, I help provide support for promising young advocates in the United States who work to raise sustainability awareness among their peers. SustainUS also represents young people at major U.N. and other international meetings. Young people often think beyond the boxes of “business vs. the environment” and know that, in order to really make a difference, the two camps need to merge. We want good jobs and a healthy environment and won’t tolerate debates that degenerate into the simple-minded “economy vs. the environment” bickering.

The truth is, business leaders who focus on sustainability often win market support and extra profits by doing so. Businesses can save thousands of dollars by using less energy and materials while producing less waste. And, any business that undertakes a comprehensive environmental audit will see that using less energy and resources can help them earn more profits. Governments that provide incentives to help businesses make the switch to more efficient production methods and technologies can help accelerate their adoption.

Of course there will always be physical consumption, but finding ways to minimize it is the key to sustainability. Youth—the largest emerging market in the world—will reward businesses that show they care about the future of their planet. It’s time our leaders in both business and politics turn to the youth, not as token advisors, but for real guidance on how to move forward with creating a world that works for present and future generations.

Lockey White Board of Directors SustainUS