3 Things I Learned 

• I learned that the only way climate change can truly be addressed and resolved is if all countries come together to create a plan of action in regards to what steps need to be taken. Climate change is affecting every country in the world as of now. Impoverished countries are affected the most, which is likely attributed to a lack of representation and money to invest in more environmentally-safe projects. 

• I learned about the impact of campaigning when it comes to seeing a change in the community. As seen in the video, two young Balian sisters named Malati and Isabelle cared deeply about the cleanliness of their oceans and were greatly concerned by the amount of plastic bags accumulated in the waters over a relatively short amount of time. By way of organized petitions and beach clean-ups, the girls had raised enough awareness about the issue to convince their governor to ban plastic bags in Bali by this year. Their undeniable perseverance in regards to the health of their environment along with their effective campaigning strategies allowed for a quite impressive change. 

• I learned that 836 million people today live in poverty. I’d always had somewhat of a sense of the enormity of poverty but knowing the real number truly makes a difference. Among these 836 million, 783 million live on less $1.90 per day, which is the international poverty line. I learned that in order for this drastic problem to be solved, “Economic growth must be inclusive to provide sustainable jobs and promote equality”(UN Sustainable Development Goals Website). In addition, social protection systems will help to implement a more effective support for impoverished countries in the face of disasters. 

2 Things I Found Interesting

• I thought it was very interesting how a young girl in Istanbul found a way to reduce the use of plastic by creating a new natural plastic made from banana skin. This helped to minimize the use of petroleum-based plastics which were polluting the city. I just find it amazing that a young girl was able to invent such an impressive and environmentally-conscience solution to an issue in her community. It just goes to show that anyone is capable of inventing great things.

•  I also thought it was very interesting and impressive that a young man in India helped to decrease water waste when a toilet is flushed by inventing a whole new system for toilet. He rightfully was rewarded with an international science prize and his invention will be key in limiting water waste in a rapidly increasing population. I’m just astounded that he was able to recognize this issue, which many of us take for granted, and find a functioning solution.

1 Question/Area of Confusion

• One thing I wonder is are the countries of the world ever going to be able to achieve all the UN Sustainable Development Goals? Realistically, different people have different beliefs and priorities which makes it very difficult for goals to be reached efficiently.