Element 6: Sustainability 2018. Last modified by Margaret Smith on Wednesday, 7 December 2022, 10:16 AM This document was downloaded on Monday, 1 May 2023, 12:13 PMElement 6 - Sustainability. Learning Outcomes. Once you have completed this element you will be able to: 1. Explain the principles of environmental sustainability. 2. Outline the role of environmental corporate social responsibility and self-regulation 3. Outline the drivers for global adoption of sustainability. Recommended study time for this element is no less than 7 hours.Learning Outcome 1. Learning Objectives Explain the principles of environmental sustainability.What will be Covered in Learning Outcome 17 In this learning outcome, the following will be covered: Pri iples of sustainability The definition of sustainability as given in Principle 3 of the Rio Declaration on Environment and Development from the Rio Earth Summit, Principles of sustainability, The three pillars of sustainability — economic, social and environmental The importance of sustainability and resource efficiency in decision making Design, construction and resource efficiency with sustainability as an objective. Precautionary principle, polluter pays as examples of drivers for sustainability. Population growth and rising standards of living placing a strain on natural resources (including competition for resources) and being a threat to a sustainable future. The principles of Ecological, Carbon and Water Footprints, The 5 sustainable capitals and the dependencies between them. Natural Social. Human. Financial. Manufactured/Built. Concept of product stewardship. Concept of ethical probity. The need for sustainability reporting and auditing.1.0 - Definition of Sustainability. The definition of sustainability as given in Principle 3 of the Rio Declaration on Environment and Development form the Rio Earth Summit is: “the right to development must be fulfilled so as to equitably meet the developmental and environmental needs of present and future generations”. An alternative definition was provided by "Our Common Future: Report of the World Commission on Environment and Development by the UN: "Development that meets the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs".1.1 - Three Pillars of Sustainability. To be sustainable, there needs to be a balance of the social, environmental and economic needs (people, planet and profit); often referred to as the three pillars of sustainability. The Social Pillarrevolves around businesses having the support and approval of not only its employees but the stakeholders and communities in which it operates to be sustainable. This involves treating employees fairly, being a good neighbour and member of the community. Examples include flexible scheduling, training programs, community fundraising, equal pay, etc. The Environmental Pillar is about helping the environment by, for example, reducing carbon footprints, decreasing the amount of packaging waste, tracking water usage and our overall effect on the environment. Often, in this case, the impacts or costs are not that easy to determine. The Economic Pillar is about creating a profitable business which will make it sustainable. This involves compliance with laws, proper governance and managing environmental risks as well as health and safety ones.1.2 - Sustainability & Resource Efficiency in Decision Making. Businesses need to incorporate sustainability and resource efficiency into decision-making processes for the benefits that they can bring: * improved efficiency means the elimination of waste and the saving of raw materials, helping businesses run leaner and save money. * Public appeal - improving the customers’ perceptions of the organisation with many customers now preferring to use sustainable brands and organisations. * Shareholder value - this involves investors and customers rewarding sustainable organisations with sales and value. + Employee recruitment and retention - an increasing number of prospective employees are considering sustainability when looking at potential employers. * Reduced business risk from the elimination of the undesirable outcomes from the products and services provided by the organisation.1.3 - Design and Construction with Sustainability as an Objective. A product or service that considers sustainability during its design phase must consider the potential social, economic and environmental impacts throughout its life cycle. For example, in the design phase, the following should be considered: Reduction in raw materials. Decrease in the usage of energy and water. Reduction or elimination of hazardous materials. Greater service life. Improved recycling, When considering construction there are many ways that buildings and other types of development can be planned and built to help deliver sustainability goals, these include: Provision of buildings that improve the health and well-being of those that use them allowing them to enjoy a more sustainable life. Developing buildings that have a long life and have a reduced environmental impact. Using construction materials that have a low energy intensity and minimise damage to the environment during their life cycle (extraction, production, construction, use and demolition). * By providing employment and delivering sustainable economic growth1.4 - Resource Efficiency & Sustainability. The circular economy is built upon the principle of resource efficiency. it ensures that resources are in use longer, meaning less newer resources are extracted; the principle of creating more with less. There are benefits for organisations to be more resource efficient which includes: * Cost savings. Boots economies. Competitive edge. * Environmental protection Enhanced reputation with local and national communities.1.5 - Drivers of Sustainability. Two key drivers for sustainability are the precautionary principle and the polluter pays principle. Both are implemented into international and national laws to help to deliver sustainable development. The Precautionary Principle refers to the need to implement changes in the absence of absolute scientific proof. Further delay with such issues could have a detrimental effect on society both now and in the future. Itis vital however that the environmental benefits of such measures are more than their economic and social costs. Ideally, such measures will have ‘no regrets’ in that they will have other advantages whether they reduce environmental impact. The Polluter Pays Principles identifies the need for the polluter to pay for the damage to the environment of the pollutant that they release. Fiscal Measures should be used to drive changes in behaviour by educating and having awareness initiatives. The message should be put over, that energy use can become a major contributor to greenhouse gas emissions and must be reduced. The focus should be on direct energy in the home and workplace (electricity, gas and oil) and by transport usage. Economic monitoring should be used to reward behaviour that helps to achieve reduction targets and penalise any behaviour that hinders them.1.6 - Population Growth & Natural Resources. Increases in populations due to increases in birth rates and people living longer are putting pressure on the vital resources needed for survival There are rising concerns that as populations continue to grow, the Earth will no longer be able to sustain us. Vital resources such as clean water, clean air, biodiversity, habitats, food and shelter are in more demand, the more the population increases. More people need more housing, more infrastructure, more fuel, more food, more land, which is using up the natural resources quicker than they can be replenished. There is a risk that when the non-renewable resources are used too quickly they could be lost forever. In 2017 the United Nations Department of Economic and Social Affairs published that the current world population was 7.6 billion, with expectations of. * 86 billion by 2030, * 9.8 billion by 2050. * 11.2 billion by 2100, There are roughly 83 million people bon every year, all of which will require resources to sustain them throughout their lives. Therefore, a more sustainable approach to resources, especially non- renewable ones, needs to be implemented1.7 - Principles of Ecological Footprints. Ccarbon Footprint Cropland Pasture Buitup Land = Fisheries The ecological footprint is the measure of human activity on the environment. It measures the environmental resources that a population needs to produce the goods and services it consumes, to support a specific lifestyle. The ecological footprint tracks the use of six classifications of productive surface areas that are measured: * Cropland. Grazing land Fishing grounds. Built-up land. Forest areas. Carbon demand on land. The ecological footprint is measured in units called global hectares (gha). Whether a country is in ecological reserve or deficit can be worked out using the biocapacity of the country along with its ecological footprint. The biocapacity of a country is the area of productive land that produces resources or absorbs carbon waste (also measured in global hectares; gha). The biocapacity per person is the total biocapacity of a country divided by the population. The average biocapacity of the entire world is 1.7 gha The ecological footprint per person is a country's total ecological footprint divided by the total Population of the country. The ecological footprint per person would need to equal the biocapacity per person to ensure that the country lives within the means of the resources of the area. In areas where the ecological footprint per person exceeds the biocapacity per person, there will be an ecological deficiency and resources will be used up quicker than they can be replenished. Below are some examples of countries ecological footprints taken from the Global Footprint Network website: Country Biocapacity/person (gha) Ecological footprintiperson Biocapacity reserve (+)! (aha) deficit ()Figure 1. Table showing the biocapacity of certain countries, courtesy of the Global Footprint Network.1.8 - Carbon Footprint. 6 Transpo oO a= Uy wv, Waste Reovling Gag The carbon footprint is defined as the total emissions caused by an individual, event organisation or product. It is expressed as a carbon dioxide equivalent (CO,,) as it considers other greenhouse gases as well as carbon dioxide. Electricity e The carbon footprint considers both the direct and indirect sources of carbon and other greenhouse gases. The direct sources include energy generation, transport, etc. The indirect sources include products, services, ete. The carbon footprint is measured in tonnes of carbon dioxide equivalent (CO,) and is calculated by multiplying the emissions of each of the 6 greenhouse gases by its 100-year global warming potential (GWP). A carbon footprint considers all 6 of the Kyoto Protocol greenhouse gases: Carbon dioxide (CO,). Methane (CH). Nitrous Oxide (N,O). Hydrofluorocarbons (HFC’s), Perfluorocarbons (PFC’s). Sulphur Hexafluoride (SF). According to the Carbon Trust, the main types of carbon footprint for organisations are’ * Organisational - activity emissions e.g. energy use, vehicles, etc. * Value chain - suppliers and consumers emissions - indirect of the organisation. * Product - emissions over the lifecycle of the product/service - from the extraction of the raw materials to disposal. * Supply chain - emissions from raw materials and services purchased by an organisation to deliver its products/services.1.9 - Water Footprint. The water footprint is defined as the total volume of freshwater used or polluted, to produce the good and services consumed by individuals, communities or businesses. The concept was introduced in 2002 to have: * An indicator showing volumes of water used. * An indication of volumes of pollution caused. * Geographically explicit indicators of where water is used. ‘The water footprint considers both internal and external water volumes. The internal water footprint includes the amount of water used from domestic water resources. External water footprints consider the volume of water used in other countries to produce goods/services which are then imported and consumed. The information from water footprint can be used to determine how the availability of adequate water resources is influenced by the economic choices made and processes undertaken. It also provides a realistic ecological model of water resources across the globe. ‘The Water Footprint Network (a non-profit organisation) identifies three types of water footprints that are recorded: Blue water footprints - is the volume of water sourced from surface or groundwater sources. This water has either been evaporated into a product or taken from one body of water and returned to another or returned later. Bluestein [yreap) Figure 2. The blue total water footprint of consumption per country in the period 1996-2008. Green water footprints - is the amount of water from precipitation that, after having been stored in the soil root zone, is either lost by evaporation or up-taken by plants.Green water {m'iyricap] [200-00 | s00- s018 [i 015-1400 [i +400- 2000 2000-2500 HI 2500-2000 HB - 2000 [| No data Figure 3, The green total water footprint of consumption per country in the period 1996-2006. Grey water footprints - is the volume of water required to dilute pollutants so that the water meets the agreed standards for water quality. Grey water footprint im ¥yreap] (9) 5-100 [100-180 150-216 [EB ss -ann 300-500 500-1000 HE > 100 No wata Figure 4. The grey total water footprint of consumption per country in the period 1996-2006. (All water footrint images courtesy of National water footprint accounts: th green, blue and grey water fotprnt of production and ‘consumption value of water. Research Series No, 50, UNESCO-IME, Delt, the Netheriands, Mekonnen, MM & Hoekstra, AY (2011). In February 2011 the Water Footprint Network along with other bodies, including the United Nations launched the Global Water Footprint Standards. In July 2014 ISO issued IS014046:2014 Environmental Management - Water Footprint - Principles, Requirements and Guidelines, to provide guidance for undertaking a water footprint assessment based on a life cycle analysis approach.1.10 - Sustainable Development. According to the UK Forum for the Future Charity, sustaining an improved quality of life through good and services is only possible if the stocks of 5 types of capital are maintained or increased over time. These 5 capitals are Natural capital - the stock/flow of materials and energy needed to produce goods and services. This capital includes both renewable and non-renewable resources; resource sinks that absorb/neutralise/recycle wastes; processes such as climate regulation Human capital includes the health, knowledge, skills and motivation of people to ensure a productive workforce. Therefore, for a flourishing economy investment needs to be made through training and education. Social capital revolves around networks and relationships that help maintain and develop human partnerships e.g. families, schools, businesses and voluntary organisations. Manufactured capital involves the good or fixed assets that area part of the production process but not an output e.g. tools, buildings, machinery, etc. Financial capital has no real value but rather allows the other types of capitals to be owned or traded. Examples include banknotes, bonds and shares, etc. The world is facing a sustainability crisis as stocks of natural, human and social capital are being consumed quicker than they can be produced, All these capitals work together to provide a sustainable quality of life. Natural capital is converted to products and services by businesses which enhances social capital creating employment and increasing financial capital; leading to greater manufactured capital and further employment opportunities.1.11 - Concept of Product Stewardship. Product stewardship is an environmental management strategy where protection of the environment focuses on the product itself. Designed, producers, sellers and users of a product (everyone included in the products lifespan/lifecycle) are responsible for reducing the products adverse environmental impacts Those who can affect the environmental impacts of the product over its full life cycle have the greatest responsibility. This is the producer in most cases. Producers need to factor in recycling or disposal in their designs. This may involve redesigning products, using less harmful products, making products reusable and/or recyclable. Retailers and consumers have the responsibility for ensuring that the products are properly disposed of or recycled at the end of its useful life.1.12 - Concept of Ethical Probity. Ethical probity is evidence of being ethical. Organisations being fair, impartial, accountable, transparent, honest and having integrity regarding a particular process. In some cases, it could mean that organisations go above and beyond the basic requirements of the law.1.13 - The Need for Sustainability Reporting & Auditing. Organisations undertaking sustainability auditing and reporting back to stakeholders shows transparency and honesty by the organisation but also holds them accountable for the findings. Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) reporting and auditing is required due to: * Legislation - some may require the publishing of a CSR. * Standards such as Eco-Management Audit Scheme (EMAS). * Initiatives such as the FTSE4Good scheme. * Public demand for transparency on environmental issues.Self-Marked Practice Question. Please find below a self-marked question for you to attempt. The answer will be on the next page for you to see how well you did, so no peeking! Outline the precautionary and the polluter pays principles.Self-Marked Answer. The Precautionary Principle refers to the need to implement changes in the absence of absolute scientific proof. Further delay with such issues could have a detrimental effect on society both now and in the future. It is vital however that the environmental benefits of such measures are more than their economic and social costs. Ideally, such measures will have 'no regrets’ in that they will have other advantages whether they reduce environmental impact. ‘The Polluter Pays Principles identifies the need for the polluter to pay for the damage to the environment of the pollutant that they release.Learning Outcome 1 Summary. SUMMAR In this learning outcome we have covered: Principles of sustainability The definition of sustainability as given in Principle 3 of the Rio Declaration on Environment and Development from the Rio Earth Summit. Principles of sustainability. The three pillars of sustainability ~ economic, social and environmental. The importance of sustainability and resource efficiency in decision making. Design, construction and resource efficiency with sustainability as an objective. Precautionary principle, polluter pays as examples of drivers for sustainability. Population growth and rising standards of living placing a strain on natural resources (including competition for resources) and being a threat to a sustainable future. The principles of Ecological, Carbon and Water Footprints. The 5 sustainable capitals and the dependencies between them. Natural. Social, Human. Financial. Manufactured/Built. Concept of product stewardship. Concept of ethical probity. The need for sustainability reporting and auditing.Learning Outcome 2. Learning Objectives Outline the role of environmental corporate so ity and self-regulation.What will be Covered in Learning Outcome 2? In this learning outcome, the following will be covered: Environmental corporate responsibility and self-regulation * The role of corporate social responsibility in promoting sustainability. + Assumption of responsibility (including corporate govemance) for the environmental burdens caused by activities, products and services. * Action to improve own performance, as well as the performance of others, within an. organisation's control or sphere of influence. * Control of social irresponsibility (child labour, slavery, water abstraction, waste dumping). * Implementation of environmental risk management controls with a sustainability perspective to avoid, assess and reduce environmental risks * Adoption of life cycle thinking from raw materials and energy generation, through production and use to end-of-life disposal or recovery; supply chain requirements. + Communicating commitments, performance and other information related to social responsibility; concept of ‘social licences’ * The effects on business of adverse stakeholder reaction to environmental performance concerns. * The meaning and role of self-regulation * The role and function of corporate governance in a system of self-regulation2.0 - Corporate Social Responsibility & Sustainability. 1SO 26000 defines social responsibility as. “the responsibility of an organisation for the impacts of its decisions and activities on society and the environment through transparent and ethical behaviour that contributes to sustainable development, including health and the welfare of society”. Therefore, from this definition, corporate social responsibility is about doing the right thing, above and beyond legal requirements to protect the environment and society and give something back. Those organisations that undertake corporate social responsibility are embedding environmental and social management into their business activities and being held accountable for the impacts they cause.2.1 - Assumption of Responsibility. Under environmental corporate responsibility, organisations take responsibility for the environmental impacts caused by their operations. Organisations need to be effectively managed to ensure that they adopt sustainability concepts into their businesses and ensure that responsibilities are established and taken Corporate Governance is a successful means by which corporate social responsibility (CSR) can be managed. It is a structured set of rules, processes and practices that the organisation is directed and controlled by. Corporate governance essentially balances all the needs of its stakeholders e.g. customers, government, community, etc.2.2 - Action to Improve Performance. Organisations need to take action to improve their own performance, as well as the performance of others, within their control or sphere of influence, for example, contractors or suppliers. Therefore, when organisations are developing their corporate social responsibilty strategy, it must include how the organisation will control/influence its external stakeholders. This can be achieved through supply chain management where the organisation will impose requirements on external stakeholders to ensure they meet the standards the organisation has set,2.3 - Control of Social Irresponsibility. Corporate social responsibility (CSR) not only requires that companies act in a socially responsible manner but also act to control socially irresponsible behaviour. There are different types of social irresponsibility that will affect different organisations, depending on the activities they undertake. Some common issues of social irresponsibility include child labour, slavery, water abstraction and waste dumping,2.4 - Social Irresponsibility - Child Labour. hild labour is defined by the ILO as: "work that deprives children of their childhood, their potential and their dignity, and that is harmful to physical and mental development”. This definition refers to work that is not only harmful to the children but work that interferes with their schooling by not allowing them to attend, requires them to leave early or means that they must combine their schooling with excessive work. In the more extreme cases, child labour involves the children being enslaved and taken away from their families, whilst being exposed to dangerous activities. In some child labour cases, it can mean. that form an early age, children are left on the street to fend for themselves. The ILO aims to eliminate the worst forms of child labour as a priority e.g. slavery practices and ilicit activities etc. This is clarified in Article 3 of the ILO Convention No. 182 Worst forms of child labour convention 1999, Another ILO Convention that also tries to reduce child labour is Convention 138, Minimum age Convention 1973, which sets the minimum working age as 14.2.5 - Social Irresponsibility - Slavery. Slavery, for this qualification, will cover forced labour and human trafficking, but under ILO guidelines, it also covers forced marriages. ee Ua ea Slavery is defined as "a situation of exploitation that a person cannot refuse or leave because of threats, violence, coercion, deception, and/or abuse of power". The ILO defines forced labour as “all work or service that is exacted from any person under menace of any penalty, and for which the said person has not offered himself voluntarily" _ \LO Force Labour Convention 1930 (No.29) According to the Global Estimates of Modern Slavery: Forced Labour and Forced Marriages, ILO< Geneva, 2017: "in 2016 there were 40 million victims of modern slavery, 25 million of which were under the category of forced labour.2.6 - Social Irresponsibility - Water Abstraction. wit increasing populations comes a higher demand for water. Abstracting water excessively can have serious environmental consequences as it is not often retumed to the source. Over abstracting water can lead to: * A reduction in water volumes in rivers/streams. ‘+ Wetlands and aquifers drying up. * Water tables sinking. * Wells drying up. * Increased pumping costs. * Degradation of groundwater in coastal areas due to the intrusion of salt water from the sea. * Water scarcity. All the above points will affect aquatic species and ecosystems.2.7 - Social Irresponsibility - Waste Dumping. Illegally dumping waste allows potentially harmful substances/materials to enter the environment and cause harm, he effects of illegally dumping waste include: Soil and ground/surface water pollution/contamination caused by leached chemicals. Nuisance issues such as bad odours. Loss of local visual amenities, rubbish can spoil the scenic view. Hazards to animals which can be entangled and choked by waste. The attraction of vermin to areas. Dumping waste has significant effects not only on the plants and animals but humans as well, therefore all waste needs to be stored, transported and disposed of correctly and safely,2.8 - Sustainable Environmental Risk Management Controls. Sustainability issues must be identified, assessed and controlled effectively as part of a risk management system and corporate social responsibilty strategy. The implementation of a risk management system, incorporating environmental and sustainability issues will help reduce risks and will allow key issues to be identified and prioritised for action.2.9 - Corporate Social Responsibility & Life Cycle Thinking. Corporate social responsibility includes thinking of sustainability not only in terms of activities and outputs but in terms of a life-cycle approach (cradle-to-grave). Organisations need to consider the environmental impacts of their products/services/activities across the full life cycle. ‘Some significant impacts may arise from the extraction of raw materials or in the transportation of goods rather than in their use or final disposal, as were the traditional environmental concerns that organisations focussed upon. Organisations should implement life-cycle thinking across their supply chain, where they can exert influence and/or control, to ensure their supplier use recycled/recovered materials or use materials that are renewable and have less impact on the environment.2.10 - Communicating on Social Responsibility. A Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) report will allow organisations to communicate their performance on and commitment to environmental and social responsibilities, to stakeholders, Organisations producing/publishing a corporate social responsibility report shows the community what they are doing to not only manage their environmental risks but help society. This can be an important activity which allows organisations to gain a ‘social licence' to operate (Sto). A social licence to operate revolves around how much a community accepts or approves of an organisations operations. Gaining a ‘social licence’ to operate can be an essential operational tool in some jurisdictions, because if the local community does not support an organisation or its activities, then it is unlikely that an operational licence/permit will be granted by local governments. This type of licence is a recent development, evolving from the concept of corporate social responsibility and social acceptability but is not a formal agreement.2.11 - Adverse Reactions to Environmental Performance Concerns. if an organisation has a poor environmental performance, the reactions from stakeholders could have adverse business effects. Poor environmental performance can lead to’ The local enforcing authority issuing notices on the organisations. Legal action being taken against the organisation, if laws have been breached. Bad publicity for the organisation leading to fewer salesinew clients, etc. Loss of customers who find altemative suppliers/producers with better environmental performances. Loss of certification to standards such as ISO 14001 Bad publicity can also lead to a decrease in share prices. Loss of licences/permits to operate could follow, which may result in the organisation no longer being able to operate.2.12 - Self-Regulation. Organisations need to adopt high standards, above and beyond legal requirements, to have an effective corporate social responsibilty strategy. Its through self-regulation, that this can be achieved. Environmental self-regulation includes a variety of voluntary actions taken by an organisation to improve their environmental performance. An example of this would include the elective participation in environmental standards such as ISO 140012.13 - Corporate Governance & Self-Regulation. As noted previously, corporate governance is the structured set of rules, processes and practices that an organisation is directed and controlled by. Within a setf-regulated organisation, the practice of going above and beyond legislation and the expectations of how this approach would be achieved would be firmly established within the organisations’ corporate governance system.Self-Marked Practice Question. Please find below a self-marked question for you to attempt. The answer will be on the next page for you to see how well you did, so no peeking! Define the term corporate social responsibilty.Self-Marked Answer. Corporate social responsibility is: “the responsibility of an organisation for the impacts of its decisions and activities on society and the environment through transparent and ethical behaviour that contributes to sustainable development, including health and the welfare of society”Learning Outcome 2 Summary. SUMMAR In this learning outcome we have covered: Environmental corporate responsi and self-regulation * The role of corporate social responsibility in promoting sustainability. ‘* Assumption of responsibilty (including corporate govemance) for the environmental burdens caused by activities, products and services. * Action to improve own performance, as well as the performance of others, within an organisation's control or sphere of influence. * Control of social irresponsibility (child labour, slavery, water abstraction, waste dumping). * Implementation of environmental risk management controls with a sustainability perspective to avoid, assess and reduce environmental risks * Adoption of life cycle thinking from raw materials and energy generation, through production and use to end-of-life disposal or recovery; supply chain requirements. + Communicating commitments, performance and other information related to social responsibility; concept of ‘social licences’ * The effects on business of adverse stakeholder reaction to environmental performance concerns. * The meaning and role of self-regulation * The role and function of corporate governance in a system of self-regulation.Learning Outcome 3. Learning Objectives Outline the drivers for global adoption of sustainability.What will be Covered in Learning Outcome 37 In this learning outcome, the following will be covered: Global recognition of the importance of sustainabi * The function of the 1992 Convention on Biological Diversity (1992 Biodiversity Convention). * The function of the Intemational Tropical Timber Agreement 2006, * The function of the 1972 Convention for the Protection of the World Cultural and Natural Heritage (1972 World Heritage Convention), * The purpose of the 1992 Climate Change Convention * The effect of adopting Agenda 21 of the United Nations Conference on Environment and Development (UNCED), Rio de Janeiro, 1992 on UN member states. * Overview of the UN Global Compact in respect of the environment (Principles 7-9): © Implementation of a precautionary approach to environmental challenges (principle 7). © Adoption of initiatives to promote greater environmental responsibility (principle 8). © The development and diffusion of environmentally friendly technologies (principle 9). * The purpose of the UN Sustainable Development Goals and targets.3.0 - Global Recognition of Sustainability. With the World population continuing to grow, there will be a greater demand for natural resources, which will not be met if sustainable approaches are not adopted. The importance of sustainability has received global recognition and is seen as a key issue embraced by international institutions, Govermments, investors, etc. Over the last 30 years, there has been an increase in the number of global treaties, international frameworks, standards and agreements, etc. established and implemented to cover sustainability and protect the environment. In the following pages, we will be reviewing some of these key international laws.3.1 - Convention on Biological Diversity 1992. 25 Convention on Biological Diversity YEARS | SAFEGUARDING LIFE ON EARTH The 1992 Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) is a legally binding international treaty which came into force on the 29th December 1993, This convention is often reviewed as the key intemational instrument for encouraging actions for sustainable development and a sustainable future The CBD ensures that "ecosystems, species and genetic resources are used for the benefit of humans, but in a way that does not lead to a decline in biodiversity’. It also acts as a reminder that natural resources are not infinite and why sustainable use if required. For the first time in international law, there is a treaty that recognises that "the conservation of biodiversity is a common concem for humankind and is an integral part of the development process”. The treat also provides a link between the traditional efforts in conservation and the ‘economic benefits of sustainable resource use. The CBD has three main goals: * Conservation of biodiversity. * Sustainable use of biodiversity. * Fair and equitable sharing of benefits arising from the use of genetic resources. The CBD provides decision-makers guidance based on the Precautionary Principle, where a lack of scientific certainty cannot be used as a reason for not implementing controls which would eliminate or reduce any threats of a significant reduction or loss of biological diversity. Under the Convention, the following issues are dealt with: ‘+ Measuring incentives for conserving and sustaining biological diversity. * Regulating access to genetic resources and traditional knowledge. * Fairly sharing any results of research and development. * Access to and the transfer of technology. * Technical and scientific cooperation. * Impact assessment, + Education and public awareness. * Provision of financial resources. * Coordination of a global directory of taxonomic expertise (the global taxonomy incentive). * National reporting on efforts to implement the Treaty's commitment.3.2 - International Tropical Timber Agreement 2006. ITTO Tak INTERNATIONAL TROPICAL ITT TIMBER ORGANIZATION As Brazil alone has lost 53,167 hectares (ha) of tropical rainforest in the last 25 years (source: UN 2015, Forest Resources Assessment) it i$ essential that controls are put in place to prevent further losses. (One way to do this is through the International Tropical Timber Agreement, 2006, which came into force on the 7th December 2011 The function of this agreement is "Promote expansion and diversification of international trade in tropical timber from sustainably managed and legally harvested forests and to promote the sustainable management of tropical timber producing forests". (Source: intemational Topical Timber Agreement 2006). To ensure the above functions of the agreement are achieved, the Intemational Tropical Timber Organisation (ITTO) was established. The strategic priorities and actions of the ITTO include: “promoting good governance and enabling policy frameworks for strengthening sustainable forestry management (SFM) and related trade and enhancing SFM financing and investment; * increase the contribution of tropical forests to national and local economies, including through international trade; * enhance the conservation and sustainable use of biodiversity in tropical timber producing forests; * reduce tropical deforestation and forest degradation and enhance the provision of environmental services; * Improve the quality and availabilty of information on tropical forests, forest products markets and trade; * build and develop human resource capacity to implement sustainable forestry management and increase trade in forest goods and services from sustainably managed forests”. (source: ITTO Strategic action plan 2013-2018 - ITTO Policy Development Serios No. 19) For more information on the ITTO’s strategic action plan please click here for the full action plan document.3.3 - Convention for the Protection of the World Cultural & Natural Heritage 1972. ——== ei SS # MNCL: 5 : 5 £ =: * Ne United Nations > World Educational, Scientific and + Heritage Cultural Organization - Convention This Convention partners the conservation of nature with cultural preservation and recognises how nature is interacted with and the need to maintain the balance between the two, For those not clear on the difference between natural and cultural heritage, please find an explanation below, Natural heritage comprises the components of biodiversity including flora, fauna, ecosystems, etc. Cultural heritage includes the indicators of the way of living form previous generations. Example include buildings and monuments, etc. The Convention sets out duties for ratifying countries which include: * The identification of potential sites/properties to be included in the World Heritage List. * Providing management plans for the protection and upkeep of cultural and natural heritage. Set up staff and services at their sites. Undertake scientific and technical conservation research ‘Adopt measures to give the heritage a day-to-day function in the community. Periodically report on the condition of their heritage sites. The Convention defines what types of natural and cultural heritage can be considered for inclusion into the World Heritage List.3.4 - Climate Change Convention 1992. g Y y, y 4 United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change In 1992, countries adopted the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC). This Convention provided a framework on stabilising concentrations of greenhouse gases (GHG's) in the atmosphere, so as to reduce/prevent climate change, whilst sustaining economic development and food production. The Convention acknowledged that the adverse effects from climate change are common concems for all and requires an effective and appropriate response on a global level. The Convention requires participating countries to: * Protect the climate for both present and future generations. * Take action to anticipate, reduce or eliminate causes of climate change and its effects. + Produce national policies on sustainable development and climate protection. * Gather and share information on technology/policies/practices/processes that can be used to control, eliminate or reduce GHG emissions. * Promote sustainable management and the conservation/enhancement of environmental sinks and reservoirs. * Cooperate in the production of adaptions that are needed to prepare for the impacts of climate change. + Promote and cooperate in scientific, technological, technical, social-economic and other research into climate change. + Promote, cooperate and encourage education, training and public awareness of climate change and the effects.Under this Convention, further developments on climate change were able to be produced with more specific requirements. Such developments include * Kyoto Protocol * Doha amendment to the Kyoto Protocol. * Paris Agreement. For more information on the developments please click on its title above.3.5 - Climate Change Protection Timeline. Please find below a timeline showing the development of climate change protection. 1979 1988 1990 1992 1904 1997 2005 2009 2010 2011 2012 2014 2015 Date Development World Climate Change Conference (WCC) takes place for the first time. Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (PCC) established, IPCC and second WCC called for a global treaty on climate change, United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) developed. UNFCCC enters into force, Kyoto Protocol formally adopted. Kyoto Protocol enters into force. Copenhagen Accord - endorses the continuation of the Kyoto Protocol and establishes a Green Climate Fund, Cancun Agreement drafted. Sets out the Green Climate Fund to support climate change activities in developing countries. Durban Platform created a roadmap for implementing climate change initiatives to extend past the current 2020 deadline and established the second commitment to the Kyoto Protocol Doha Amendment to the Kyoto Protocol was adopted - this establishes a second commitment period to run from 2013-2020. The inclusion of Nitrogen Trifluoride was added to the list of GHG's. Lima Call for Climate Action encourages partes to ratify the Doha amendment whilst also providing information on the key elements ofthe future Paris Agreement. Paris Agreement sets limits on global temperature rise to 2°C above pre-industrial levels for this century and then further to 1.5 °C. It also provides requirements for participating countries to strengthen their ability to deal with climate change impacts, Figure 1. Showing the climate change protection timeline; courtesy of the United Nations.3.6 - Agenda 21. sie wiry, amie mom iAgenda 21 is a non-binding action plan from the United Nations aimed at achieving global sustainable development. It was produced under the 1992 Rio Earth Summit, where it was agreed that the local level was the best place to start for developing sustainability Under Agenda 21, each government must produce its own local strategy resulting from consultations with its population, on important topics for the country. ‘Agenda 21 believes that sustainable development is only possible through involving society as a whole e.g. community groups, minorities, businesses, etc. so that everyone is involved and backs the plans, Local authorities produce their own indicators of sustainability to help them measure their sustainable successes. Indicators can include the number of parks, crime statistics, standards of education, etc. Agenda 21 follows the same principles of sustainable development as other similar treaties, protocols etc and has the goal of ensuring everyone, now and in the future, has a better quality of life by developing solutions through more efficient practices.3.7 - UN Global Compact. ¥%, United Nations Global Compact The United Nations Global Compact is the world’s main business sustainability initiative. The UN Global Compact aims to "mobilise a global movement of sustainable companies and stakeholders to create the world we want". To achieve this, the UNGC support businesses who operate responsibly, adhering to the ten principles they have devised and who advance social goals through collaboration and innovation. The UNGC believes that by incorporating their Ten Principles into an organisations policies, procedures and strategies, they are being responsible to others and the environment whilst being sustainable and creating a better world Even though there are Ten Principles, for this qualification the focus will be on those relating to the environment, Principles 7-9 Principle Requirement Principle 7 "Businesses should support a precautionary approach to environmental challenges” Principle 8 "Businesses should undertake initiatives fo promote greater environmental responsibilty’ Principle 9 "Businesses should encourage the development and diftusion of environmentally friendly technologies” Figure 2. Showing the envionmental principles from the UN Global Compact Ten Principles. ‘We will now outline these principles in more detail Principle 7. Principle 7 revolves around Principle 15 of the Rio Declaration - the Precautionary Principle. It requires organisations to ensure that risks are assessed, managed and communicated before an event occurs which could result in serious or irreversible environmental damage. Pri iple 8. This principle reiterates Chapter 30 of Agenda 21, of the Rio Earth Summit and pushes for organisations to be more seff-regulated, above and beyond the minimum requirements and being more transparent with stakeholders.Principle 9. Environmentally friendly technology should protect the environment by producing less pollution and using resources in a more sustainable manner, etc. This principle considers familiar topics such as life cycle analysis and environmental performance reporting Organisations adhering to these principles will reduce their environmental impacts as well as receive economic benefits such as increased productivity, tax incentives, increased efficiency, increased business opportunities and competitiveness,3.8 - United Nations Sustainable Development Goals & Targets. @ devetornent GOALS oe) ‘Comme cows 9) oosencracane rr Sf ‘The United Nations Sustainable development goals and targets provide a blueprint for a sustainable future and better quality of life for all. ‘The goals address current global issues, and all interlink to ensure that no one is left behind. The United Nations has set a target of 2030 to achieve all 17 of their sustainable goals and targets. These 17 goals are change ete: ted below and cover topics such as poverty, inequality and climate * "Goal 1. End poverty in all its forms everywhere. * Goal 2. End hunger, achieve food security and improved nutrition and promote sustainable agriculture. * Goal 3. Ensure healthy lives and promote well-being for all at all ages. * Goal 4. Ensure inclusive and equitable quality education and promote lifelong learning opportunities for all * Goal 5. Achieve gender equality and empower all women and girls. * Goal 6. Ensure availability and sustainable management of water and sanitation for all. * Goal 7. Ensure access to affordable, reliable, sustainable and modem energy for all. * Goal 8. Promote sustained, inclusive and sustainable economic growth, full and productive ‘employment and decent work for all.Goal 9. Build a resilient infrastructure, promote inclusive and sustainable industrialization and foster innovation. Goal 10. Reduce inequality within and among countries. Goal 11. Make cities and human settlements inclusive, safe, resilient and sustainable, Goal 12. Ensure sustainable consumption and production patterns. Goal 13. Take urgent action to combat climate change and its impacts. Goal 14. Conserve and sustainably use the oceans, seas and marine resources for sustainable development. Goal 15. Protect, restore and promote sustainable use of terrestrial ecosystems, sustainably manage forests, combat desertification, and halt and reverse land degradation and halt biodiversity loss. Goal 16. Promote peaceful and inclusive societies for sustainable development, provide access to justice for all and build effective, accountable and inclusive institutions at all levels. Goal 17. Strengthen the means of implementation and revitalize the global partnership for sustainable development". Source: Transforming our world: the 2030 Agends for Sustainable Development, The United Nations.Self-Marked Practice Question. Please find below a self-marked question for you to attempt. The answer will be on the next page for you to see how well you did, so no peeking! Identity the requirements that the Climate Change Convention puts on participating states.Self-Marked Answer. The Climate Change Convention requires participating countries to: Protect the climate for both present and future generations. ‘Take action to anticipate, reduce or eliminate causes of climate change and its effects. Produce national policies on sustainable development and climate protection. Gather and share information on technology/policies/practices/processes that can be used to control, eliminate or reduce GHG emissions. Promote sustainable management and the conservation/enhancement of environmental sinks and reservoirs. Cooperate in the production of adaptions that are needed to prepare for the impacts of climate change. Promote and cooperate in scientific, technological, technical, social-economic and other research into climate change. Promote, cooperate and encourage education, training and public awareness of climate change and the effects.Learning Outcome 3 Summary. SUMMAR In this learning outcome we have covered: Global recognition of the importance of sustainability * The function of the 1992 Convention on Biological Diversity (1992 Biodiversity Convention). * The function of the Intemational Tropical Timber Agreement 2006. * The function of the 1972 Convention for the Protection of the World Cultural and Natural Heritage (1972 World Heritage Convention). * The purpose of the 1992 Climate Change Convention * The effect of adopting Agenda 21 of the United Nations Conference on Environment and Development (UNCED), Rio de Janeiro, 1992 on UN member states. * Overview of the UN Global Compact in respect of the environment (Principles 7-9): © Implementation of a precautionary approach to environmental challenges (principle 7). © Adoption of initiatives to promote greater environmental responsibility principle 8). ® The development and diffusion of environmentally friendly technologies (principle 9) * The purpose of the UN Sustainable Development Goals and targets.Element 6 - Lesson Summary. CUTS) In this element we have covered: Pri iples of sustainability * The definition of sustainability as given in Principle 3 of the Rio Declaration on Environment and Development from the Rio Earth Summit, * Principles of sustainability © The three pillars of sustainability — economic, social and environmental © The importance of sustainability and resource efficiency in decision making © Design, construction and resource efficiency with sustainability as an objective. © Precautionary principle, polluter pays as examples of drivers for sustainability; © Population growth and rising standards of living placing a strain on natural resources (including competition for resources) and being a threat to a sustainable future. * The principles of Ecological, Carbon and Water Footprints, * The 5 sustainable capitals and the dependencies between them. © Natural ° Social © Human, © Financial © Manufactured/Built, * Concept of product stewardship, * Concept of ethical probity. * The need for sustainability reporting and auditing, Environmental corporate responsibility and self-regulation* The role of corporate social responsibility in promoting sustainability. * Assumption of responsibility (including corporate governance) for the environmental burdens caused by activities, products and services. * Action to improve own performance, as well as the performance of others, within an organisation's control or sphere of influence. * Control of social irresponsibility (child labour, slavery, water abstraction, waste dumping). * Implementation of environmental risk management controls with a sustainability perspective to avoid, assess and reduce environmental risks. + Adoption of life cycle thinking from raw materials and energy generation, through production and use to end-of-life disposal or recovery; supply chain requirements. + Communicating commitments, performance and other information related to social responsibility; concept of ‘social licences’ * The effects on business of adverse stakeholder reaction to environmental performance coneems. * The meaning and role of self-regulation * The role and function of corporate governance in a system of self-regulation Global recognition of the importance of sustainability * The function of the 1992 Convention on Biological Diversity (1992 Biodiversity Convention). ‘* The function of the International Tropical Timber Agreement 2006. * The function of the 1972 Convention for the Protection of the World Cultural and Natural Heritage (1972 World Heritage Convention) + The purpose of the 1992 Climate Change Convention. * The effect of adopting Agenda 21 of the United Nations Conference on Environment and Development (UNCED), Rio de Janeiro, 1992 on UN member states. * Overview of the UN Global Compact in respect of the environment (Principles 7-9): © Implementation of a precautionary approach to environmental challenges (principle 7) © Adoption of initiatives to promote greater environmental responsibility (principle 8). © The development and diffusion of environmentally friendly technologies (principle 9). * The purpose of the UN Sustainable Development Goals and targets.Question to Submit to Tutor. Please find below a question to submit to a tutor for feedback on your answer and understanding of the command word. Click on the submit button to bring up the email address to send your answer to. Describe the five capitals model of sustainable development (12).