In many cases, environmental degradation can be reduced or even reversed by ‘re‑extracting’ and reusing previously discarded materials, that have been left to build up in nature, in place of virgin natural resources. Here we consider actions which contribute to this.
In many cases, environmental degradation can be reduced or even reversed by ‘re-extracting’ and reusing previously discarded materials that have been left to build up in nature, in place of virgin natural resources.
This occurs when:
This Positive Pursuit encompasses any action which achieves such an outcome.
Each year, nations generate 1.3 billion tons of waste. That’s expected to soar to 4 billion tons by 2100.
72% of plastic packaging is not recovered at all – 40% is land-filled, and 32% leaks out of the collection system – that is, either it is not collected at all, or it is collected but then illegally dumped or mismanaged.
The global paper recycling rate stands at only around 58%.
Sustainable economic growth requires society to create conditions that allow the whole working age population to have quality jobs which stimulate the economy while not harming the environment.
Learn more about SDG 8Half of humanity now lives in cities, and the number is increasing. For cities to thrive we must address the pressures that rapid urbanization is placing on freshwater, infrastructure, air quality and people’s health.
Learn more about SDG 11The world’s oceans – their temperature, chemistry, currents and life – drive natural processes that make the Earth habitable for humankind. Careful management of this global resource is critical to our future.
Learn more about SDG 14