Environmental Quiz PDF

Society, History, and the Environment – Understanding the Relationship between Humans and Their Environment The relationship between humans and the natural environment has profoundly influenced the development of human societies throughout history. Natural factors have pl...

Society, History, and the Environment – Understanding the Relationship between Humans and Their Environment The relationship between humans and the natural environment has profoundly influenced the development of human societies throughout history. Natural factors have played a crucial role in shaping who we are and how civilizations have evolved. Definition of the Environment The term environment is commonly defined as the objects and conditions by which an organism is surrounded. In the context of the natural environment, it encompasses everything around us that supports human life, including air, water, soil, rocks, and climate. Polluting these elements can have long-lasting negative effects on human health and the well-being of future generations. Therefore, it is essential that we care for and preserve our environment. The Role of Natural Factors in Human Development From ancient times, the physical environment has been a key factor in the development of human societies. Thousands of years ago, natural resources like fresh water, fertile soils, and favourable climates encouraged the establishment of human settlements. These regions, such as the "Fertile Crescent" in the Middle East, became the cradle of early civilizations, providing the resources needed for agriculture, trade, and growth. Fernand Braudel’s Contribution to Environmental History Historian Fernand Braudel was one of the first to emphasize the importance of the physical environment in shaping human history. Prior to Braudel, historians tended to focus on individuals (such as kings or emperors) and events (like wars). However, in his major work, The Mediterranean and the Mediterranean World in the Age of Philip II, Braudel shifted the focus to geography and its influence on human development. The Mediterranean Sea has had a large effect on civilisations. 1. Means of Communication and Trade: The Mediterranean Sea facilitated communication and trade between different regions. The Phoenicians, one of the earliest colonizers of Malta, capitalized on this by becoming skilled traders. The sea made the movement of goods easier, allowing various communities to engage in extensive trade networks. 2. Economic Resource: Many Mediterranean communities based their economies on resources from the sea, such as salt, a valuable commodity that could be derived from seawater. The sea also provided a reliable means of transport for goods and people. 3. Climate: The Mediterranean region is known for its mild and pleasant climate, which the sea helps regulate. This climate has made the region attractive for settlement and agriculture for millennia. 4. Fishing: Fishing was one of the earliest and most important livelihoods for people living near the Mediterranean. The sea provided an abundant source of food, significantly influencing the diet and economy of coastal communities. 5. Tourism: In modern times, the Mediterranean has become a hub for tourism, with many massive coastal resorts built along its shores. The sea's natural beauty and temperate climate continue to draw visitors from around the world. The Maltese Islands: The history of the Maltese Islands offers a clear example of how the physical environment shapes a nation’s history. As a small island nation in the heart of the Mediterranean, Malta’s strategic location, climate, and resources have all played a significant role in its development. Malta’s strategic natural harbours and ports Two central themes dominating Malta’s history are: 1. Its strategic position in the central Mediterranean. 2. Its natural, deep water, and sheltered harbours. These geographical features led to our islands being ruled by a succession of European powers. The sea gave Malta an importance that is far larger than its size! Malta’s ports continued to stimulate other industries: 1. The harbours and central position of Malta stimulate major economic developments (such as the Free Port, Yacht Marinas and Cruise liner terminals). 2. At times, however, Malta’s central position made us vulnerable to irregular immigration from Africa. Human impacts on the environment have grown considerably over recent decades. Common underlying drivers of environmental issues include: Over-reliance on fossil-fuels: We are overly reliant on fossil fuels, result in a number of environmental issues. A capitalistic society (more inclined towards profits, money, and economic growth OVER quality of life) Over-consumption - living in a material society where there a lot of materialistic aspirations. Over-consumption of meat. Unsustainable production and consumption. Uneven distribution of wealth and poverty (poverty drives people not to respect the environment) Population growth, that has been taking place at a rapid pace especially in African Societies and after the second world war. This leads to ever-increasing demands that must be met. Abuse of common property (such as the sea, the fish – common property is something to belong to all, but some use more than their fair share. We see this happening in over-fishing). Major Environmental Issues that the planet is facing include: Deforestation & Land Degradation Loss of biodiversity (Hunting &Trapping) & Urban Development Climate Change (Global Warming, Sea Levels rising) Ocean acidification Pollution (sea, air, noise, light) Ozone Depletion Generation of solid waste, sewage, and other forms of liquid waste  Major Environmental Issues: Global Understanding the difference between ‘Global Warming’ and ‘Climate Change’ Global warming refers to an increase in the temperatures of our planet. Global warming is a man-made issue. Global warming is caused by emissions of greenhouse gasses (such as methane from cows). The increase in temperatures leads to disruptions in weather patterns, and extreme weather events such as extreme drought and on the contrary, flooding, hurricanes, etc. In the past we have seen many natural climatic changes (such as the end of the ice-age). Modern climate change is caused by man. As a result of pollution, man has caused changes not just in temperature but also in global climate. The effects of global warming cause climate change. Ozone Depletion The main cause of ozone depletion are ozone depleting substances – like aeons and chlorofluorocarbons. These chemicals were used in various applications (cooling systems, refrigerators). In 1987 the Montreal protocol was signed, and many countries agreed to eliminate the use of such CFCs and many other Ozone Depleting substances. In recent years, there were some encouraging signs of recovery in the Earth’s ozone layer. The Ozone Layer protects us from harmful UV radiation from the sun – this can lead to problems related to human health; skin cancers and eye cataracts. Acid Rain Unpolluted rain has a slightly alkaline pH. Acid rain has pH levels that are even lower than this. It is caused as a result of pollution. The 2 main gasses responsible for acid rain are: sulphur dioxide & nitrogen oxides. These react with water and oxygen to create sulfuric acid and nitrogen acid, resulting in rainfall that has a more acidic pH. Sulphur dioxide and nitrogen are often a result of human activities – such as coal burning (especially in China) to fuel industrial processes. Why is acid rain a problem? - Soil is eroded - Builds are corroded - Loss of biodiversity in aquatic ecosystems Smog Found particularly in urban areas – smog is a term coming from ‘smoke’ and ‘fog’. There are different types of smog: One of the first types of smog was experienced in London. Pollution in particular from the burning of coal during the industrial revolution. Los Angeles/Chemical Smog is often caused by pollution from vehicles. This has many effects on human health, particularly related to the human respiratory system. Loss of biodiversity Fiona and fauna are being lost because of massive human intervention. Three direct causes of loss of biodiversity are: 1. Deforestation (especially in tropical developing countries) 2. Overfishing 3. Hunting In some south-east Asian countries, people have uprooted massive areas of forests to make room for palm-oil trees (used in the cosmetic, food industry) – industrial plantation. The orangutan has lost most of the natural habit it lives in. Animals are shot when they try to reclaim the land that has been cleared. Water Pollution Plastic is a large problem because it takes a long time to degrade – it accumulates over time. Microplastics in the ocean end up in fish, which then infiltrate the food-chain. Waste Generation One of the underlying problems are materialism, consumption, and population-growth. Not only are there more people that need things, but we are buying excessively (Temu, Shein, promote fast-fashion), more than we truly need. Urban Sprawl Growing populations mean that more space is taken up – leading to competition with natural element and habitats.  Major Environmental Issues: Malta Overdevelopment and habitat destruction – This leads to high levels of dust in the air and respiratory issues, and noise-pollution (due to over-population), causing a reduced quality of life. Illegal hunting and trapping Waste management (Illegal dumping & excessive waste production) Air pollution Overdependence on fossil fuels Water quality Illegal hunting and collection of flora and fauna Quarrying.  The Environment, Choices and Values Our culture places man on a higher pediment than nature. In the Western World, moral values and legal codes are very much influenced by ancient Greek culture. Even in the Bible this idea is reinforced: “Rule over the fish of the sea and the birds of the air and over every living creature that moves on the group.” We should thinking of man being part of nature, rather than man being at the top of the pyramid. Today there is a lot of greed, the search for power, the continuous drive to make more money, the continuous search for economic growth. This only exacerbates the problem For humans to live well, modifying natural habitats is inevitable. Yet, maintaining a good environment is equally as important. Two projects have spiked a lot of controversy in Malta; yet one proposal was accepted, and the other was rejected. The Hilton Tower, St Julians The creation of golf courts This was the first high-rise building in Malta, the Throughout the years many proposals for golf NGO “Front Kontra l-Hilton” was formed to fight courses in Malta were released (in the Virtu area, against this. Rabat – an agricultural area rich in natural land). Arguments Against: Arguments Against: Both during the construction phase (dust, A waste of a lot of land, without many job noise) and even after the operation (more opportunities. It does not accommodate visitors in the area, more congestion) is very everyone. inconvenient for the residents. More sports diversity in Malta. Not enough water to maintain the grass. The views would be lost and it would not fit in with the architectural landscape. The Yatch Marina (process of excavation) had an impact on the marine ecosystems. Arguments in Favour: Arguments in Favour: This would contribute well to the local Upmarket tourism. economy. It would create more job opportunities. Why was one accepted and the other rejected? One creates several more job opportunities than the other. The hotel was already in an area that was highly touristic – the area was already developed while the golf course would invade a remote land. Developments must always be sustainable, and decisions should be transparent. Capitalism and its effect on the Environment What is Capitalism?  Capitalism is an economic system driven by the pursuit of profit.  It is based on private ownership of goods, distinguishing it from other socio-economic systems such as socialism and communism.  Instead of state-controlled businesses, resources are in the hands of private individuals. Privatization is the process by which government-owned businesses are sold to private owners.  In a capitalist system, most businesses are owned by entrepreneurs or investors, all aiming to maximize profit.  Prices in a capitalist economy are determined by the market, based on supply and demand. Degrees of Capitalism  Some societies have a mixed economy. For example, in Malta, government-run services (such as public schools, lighting, water, health services, and pensions) coexist with privately owned businesses.  Recently, Malta has moved closer to capitalism. For instance, the Dockyard has been privatized and is no longer government-owned.  Competition is a major driving force of capitalism, leading to innovation as businesses strive to increase market share and profits. In Malta's telecommunication sector, for example, competition grew when private companies like Epic, GO, and Melita emerged, breaking the government monopoly once held by Maltacom. Environmental Impacts of Capitalism  While capitalism is designed to create wealth, it can also have negative impacts on the environment. The freedom to pursue profit can lead some businesses to overuse resources, causing a phenomenon known as the Tragedy of the Commons.  In the Tragedy of the Commons, increasing demand for shared resources leads to overconsumption, reducing availability for others. For example, overfishing or excessive use of fossil fuels for profit leaves society to bear the environmental costs.  Capitalists and shareholders may gain profits, but society as a whole bears the burden of pollution and resource depletion.  Problems arise when there is no control whatsoever on Capitalists. There should be some element of government control. What have countries done to mitigate the What do businesses do to escape these environmental impacts of capitalism? taxations/controls? 1. Quotas: Limits on how many resources can be In order to escape from the environmental rules used. present in Europe, some businesses have simply 2. The Polluter Pays Principle : Laws and shifted their operations to other countries where measures to compensate for environmental there aren’t so many environmental obstacles, and damage. Through legislation, many countries take advantage of the cheaper labour present in these (especially developed countries) are seeking to companies (China, Bangladesh, Vietnam, India.. reduce the environmental impacts of economic Southeast Asia) development. Industries often bypass legislation by relocating to LEDCs. Such countries have cheaper labour and tend to have much less environmental regulation. Effectively, pollution ends up being shifted from one part of the world to another. How can environmental awareness create opportunities for businesses? Environmental Awareness has created a demand for greener products such as solar panels , electric cars and alternative packaging (instead of plastic). Capitalism and Environmentalism aren’t enemies – you can have a system with a fair degree of government control that respects the environment. This requires government control and cooperation from people involved in businesses.  Environmentalism What is Environmentalism? a) Environmentalism is a philosophy and social movement focused on protecting the natural environment. It emerged as a response to issues like excessive consumption, unchecked economic growth, and materialism, which threaten ecosystems. Modern environmental awareness gained momentum in the 19th century, especially in the U.S. Significant milestones include the inauguration of Yellowstone National Park in 1872, the world's first national park, and the founding of the Sierra Club in 1892, one of the first environmental NGOs, initially formed to protect the Sierra Nevada mountains. b) Environmentalism gained significant momentum after World War II. A landmark moment was the publication of Silent Spring by Rachel Carson in 1962, which raised awareness about the harmful environmental and health effects of pesticides. This book played a crucial role in increasing public concern about environmental issues and helped spark broader environmental movements, leading to greater public involvement and advocacy for environmental protection. c) A few years later, Green Political Parties (l-alternattiva demokratika) started to emerge. Green parties are part of coalition governments in various countries. We can show our respect for the environment by voting for green parties. How can I be an environmentalist? 1. Join an environmental NGO (Birdlife Malta, Nature Trust Malta, Greenpeace) 2. In your daily behaviours, respect the environment (walking for short distances, separating waste conscientiously) 3. Signing environmental-related petitions / help collecting signatures 4. Participating in protests (Moviment Graffiti) 5. Raise awareness on social media 6. Being in a democratic country allows Public Participation to take place : Enabling the public to participate in decisions affecting their environment should be encouraged through all possible means. This empowers people and reduces apathy. The Golf Course Proposal in Malta was met with many proposals. Pressure groups were influential in the successful opposition proposed to golf at Verdala and Xaghra l-Hamra. NIMBY (Not In My BackYard) – most often, we protest when the issue will impact us directly. An environmentalist opposes an issue due to a genuine concern for the environment. This is different from NIMBYism opposing an issue because it affects me directly more than anything else.  Future Generations and Climate Change Our actions today will certainly have an impact on future generations. Present generations have the right to benefit from the heritage they have inherited. However, the right comes with a responsibility to care for this heritage and pass it on to future generations in a state that they can also benefit from it. Rights are something we acquire when we are born – however, through declarations by the United Nations, future generations still have rights and it is our responsibility to protect them. In 1997, the United Nations Educational Science and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) approved a Declatation on the Responsibilities of the Present Generations towards Future Generations. a) This declaration recognizes that present generations have the responsibility to hand over to future generations an Earth not irreversibly damaged by human activity. b) This also stresses that each generation inheriting the Earth temporarily should use natural resources reasonably and ensure that life is not prejudiced by harmful changes to ecosystems, and that scientific and technological progress does not harm life on Earth. ▪ Our actions today are not really respecting this declaration. ▪ Extreme carbon emissions, causing climate change, has extreme impacts on human health, the economy, business, etc. ▪ The environemntal damaged caused by past and current generations is already compromising the ability of both present and future generations to meet their basic needs. ▪ Future development needs to be more sustainable – this also includes repairing damage that has already been done (for example protecting endangered species, banning CFCs) ▪ Stopping the negative actions is not enough we must take measures to recover/make up for the damages of what was lost.  The Sustainable Development Model – very important! Sustainable Development: Development that meets the needs of the present generation, without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs. This defenition was derived from an important report : The Bruntdland Report of 1987, entitled “Our Common Future” Example of sustainable development: 1. Renewable energy (allows us to meet our needs – such as electricity), while also increasing the lifespan of other fuels (by using solar/wind/tidal energy, we do not rely so heavily on fossil fuels) 2. Catching mature fish, giving fish enough time to grow and reproduce in fishing (fishermen need to earn their livelihood, we need fish. But in this way, the fish populations will not be compromised) ✓ Sustainable Development is an alternative to a model that focuses solely on economic growth. ✓ Development based on economic growth tends to have negative impacts on human health, the environment (amongst others). Development based on finite fossil energy and huge consumption of resources is not sustainable lnog-term. The Three Pillars of Sustainable Development Sustainable development rests on three interdependent and mutually reinforcing pillars: 1. Economic: Job opportunities must be created to support the growing population. 2. Social: Development must address the needs of all people, ensuring a just and equitable society. 3. Environmental: Economic growth and businesses should be sustainable in the long run. For instance, solar energy demonstrates this balance: Economic: Solar energy drives economic growth by creating jobs for those involved in manufacturing, installing, and marketing solar panels. Social: Solar panels are becoming more affordable, making them accessible to developing countries, such as those in Africa, where they could provide significant benefits. Environmental: Solar energy reduces dependence on fossil fuels, contributing to a cleaner environment The 80/20 Ratio Greater social justice is fundamental for sustainability, since poverty is a driver of environmental degradation. Unregulated capitalist systems that seek to satisfy the demands of those who can pay and forget all about the needs of those who cannot are partly to blame for this situation. Heads of State, Government leaders, UN High Level Representatives and Civil Society met in September 2015, at the United Nations General Assembly and adopted the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). By 2030, there are a number of targets that should be reached. There are 17 Sustainable Development Goals, each has approximately ten targets. The goals of sustainable development are: 1. End poverty 2. Zero hunger 3. Good health and well-being 4. Quality education 5. Gender equality 6. Clean water and sanitation 7. Affordable and clean energy 8. Decent work and economic growth 9. Industry, innovation, and infrastructure 10. Reduced inequalities 11. Sustainable cities and communities 12. Responsible consumption and production 13. Climate action 14. Life below water 15. Life on land 16. Peace, justice, and strong institutions 17. Partnerships for the goals Each of these goals integrates the three key aspects of sustainable development: environmental, economic, and social. Some goals are more focused on environmental concerns, while others prioritize economic or social issues, but all three dimensions are interconnected within each goal.  For example, consider the goal of Clean Water: Social: Ensuring that everyone has access to clean drinking water is essential for human health and well- being. Economic: Improving the distribution of clean water can create jobs in water treatment and transportation, and reduce healthcare costs related to diseases caused by polluted water. Environmental: Achieving clean water requires efforts to reduce pollution in water bodies, improving overall environmental health. In this way, each goal reflects the balance between social, economic, and environmental sustainability. These are ambitious goals that are difficult to achieve. We can’t all live a consumeristic lifestyle to achieve these goals and targets. Collaboration between people and a change in attitude is necessary! Building Sustainable Societies How can we achieve sustainable development? A very important document: “Caring for the Earth – A Strategy for Sustainable Living” was published in 1991. Jointly published by IUCN (International union for the conservation of nature), UNEP (United nations environment programme), and WWF (world wildlife foundation). This document is mainly a set of guidelines; it is not legally binding. There are guidelines for: ✓ authorities that are making decisions, ✓ businesses, ✓ communities, ✓ NGOs, ✓ Individuals It is not a report that deals solely with policy making. The document provides guidance and strategies for a more sustainable world. The document highlights 9 major principles for sustainable development: Respect and Unlike the other eight, this is more of an ethical principle. It highlights an important message that care for the needs to be passed on. community of There should be respect for (1) Other people with whom we share the planet, (2) future generations life – we should consider the implications of our actions in the present to the future generations, (3) Ecosystems (including the abiotic and biotic factors) Improve the Development is truly development if it brings about an improvement in human conditions: Health care quality of (providing necessary vaccinations to children, to reduce infant mortality rates), food security, human life education, freedom from violence, political freedom, human rights, an adequate standard of living. The document provides guidelines and suggestions about how these should be achieved. Conserve the This principle focuses on the protection of the environment: climate, clean air, clean water, fertile Earth’s vitality soils, rich biodiversity. The protection of life support systems and habitats (oceans, seas, forests). It and diversity also focuses on the production of biodiversity (protecting species, especially those that are at risk). We should respect all forms of life, all ecosystems, so that these are sustained in the long-term. The report suggests having more protected areas.  Minimizing We lived in a world when we were highly dependent on non-renewable sources (finite). Fossil fuels the depletion (like coal, oil, and natural gas) took millions of years to form under conditions, and we are burning of non- coal at a fast rate, burning and exhausting its supplies. renewable Why is this problematic? resources The burning of fossil fuels leads to pollution (this is one of the leading sources of greenhouse gas emissions) Future generations will not find these resources for their use. On a practical level, the report suggests a shift to renewable energy Keep within The carrying capacity refers to the maximum number of individuals an environment can support for Earth’s an indefinite period. carrying (Not only population but also attitude and consumerism) – the document focuses on changing the capacity attitude of our very consumeristic lifestyle. Suggestions to control the rate of population growth: Sexual education, Family planning, Giving access to methods of contraception in developing countries, Empowering women (the woman’s role is not solely restricted to raising children at home) Changing Role of education and information in bringing about change: education for sustainability. Personal The role of educating the public, education in all senses (vertical and horizontal) Attitudes Enable Communities have an influential role in society. Educating and empowering communities will lead communities to more sustainable societies. to care for Focuses on giving power to communities (financial power and decision making) so that they can their own protect their population. environments Provide a Strategies, plans and policies, laws, institutions. national Heritage Malta, l-ERA (environmental resources authority), MEPA (Malta environmental planning framework for authority) integrating Every country should have environmental laws to be respected. development and conservation Create a Environmental problems go beyond national boundaries (pollution, loss of biodiversity, climate global alliance change, etc.), hence the need for the world’s nations to work together for environmental sustainability. All countries contribute to climate change, and all countries worldwide will be affected by climate change – albeit to different extents. It is important to have meetings where environmental issues are discussed, where concrete action is taken in all countries in order to solve the problems that our planet is facing. There are guidelines for everyone – as individuals, businesses owners, and policy administrators, for different stakeholders. Sustainable development requires the commitment of each and every individual.  Global Parterships for Sustainable Development Environmental problems are caused by many countries and will affect all countries, globally. Therefore this document focuses on the importance of international cooperation, encouraging governments around the world to work together to reach solutions. There are many international environmental laws. These are the result of negotiation and cooperation between nations to better manage natural resources and the quality of the environment. They are intended to tackel global or regional problems that cannot be resolved by single country action. Most environmental laws that have been agreed apon are described as “soft legislation” (non-legally binding) rather than a “hard legislation” (legally binding). Soft Legislation Hard Legislation Non-legally binding. Legally binding. These are guidelines that countries are encouraged to Involves serious repercussion such as imprisonment. follow them. If countries fail to meet this guidelines, Example: Theft there are no serious repercussions. Example: Most environmental laws on a global level. Global Environmental Agreements ✓ Montreal Protocol (1987) – focused on banning CFCs and other ozone depleting substances. Countries around the world retified this agreement and took measures to eliminate such harmful substances. ✓ Stockholm Declaration: One of the most important and earliest steps was taken in 1972 (first UN conference on the environment), through the Stockholm Declaration, the Unitied Nationas formally recognized the right to live in a healthy environment. Principle 1: Man has the fundamental right to freedom, equality, and adequate conditions of life, in an environment of a quality that permits a life of dignity and well-being. Conferences that followed led to concrete action being taken. ✓ The Earth Summet: (1992) This was a very important landmark, held in Rio de Janeiro. The subsequent years led to the adoption of significant agreements: 1. The Framework Convention on Climate Change (FCCC) and the Kyoto Protocol bring UN member states together annually to address climate change. However, developing countries were not required to commit to the Kyoto Protocol. They argued that they hadn't had the same opportunities to use resources for economic growth as developed nations had in the past. This disparity led some major nations, such as the United States, to also opt out of the agreement. The Paris Agreement vouched for countries to reduce their dependency on fossil fuels, to make sure the earth’s temperature does not rise by more than 1.5 degrees celcius. 2. The Convention on Biological Diveristy – UN countries began to take measures to prevent loss of biodiversity. 3. Agenda 21 – An important document focusing on the way forward in relation to the environment. The number 21 in the title of this document stands for the 21st century – it is a long term plan of goals for the 21st century. This provides a comprehensive, holistic plan. ✓ Millenium Development Goals (MDGs) – These focus on eight goals, officially signed and agreed in 2021, were to be achieved by the year 2015. For each goal, there are a number of targets to reach. Their main aim is to improve the world, but only from an environmental but also from a social and economic point of view. Eradicate extreme Achieve universal Promote gender Reduce child mortality poverty and hunger primary education equality and empower women Improve maternal Combat HIV/AIDS, Ensure environmental Global partnership for health malaria and other sustainability development diseases These goals were set out to be achieved by 2015. However, though it is true that we have seen major improvements, 10% of the world still lives in extreme poverty. Millions of cases of child morality and diseases like HIV/AIDS are very present in sub-saharan Africa. The MDGs did not achieve their intended level of success, due to them being soft legislation. In 2015, UN member states agreed on a new set of goals: SDGs, to be reached by the year 2030 through a number of targets for every goal. There are 17 goals with approximately 10 targets per goal. These are called the 2030 agenda for sustainable development. The goals of sustainable development are: End poverty, Zero hunger, Good health and well-being, Quality education, Gender equality, Clean water and sanitation, Affordable and clean energy, Decent work and economic growth, Industry, innovation, and infrastructure, Reduced inequalities, Sustainable cities and communities, Responsible consumption and production, Climate action, Life below water (by 2035, prevent and reduce marine pollution of all kinds, particularly from land-based activity – regulate fishing and end over-fishing), Life on land, Peace, justice, and strong institutions, Partnerships for the goals. For some of these goals, there are some legally binding action – such as the Paris Agreement. Goals 6, 7, 13, 14, and 15 – very important. It is already predicted that most SDG goals will fail to meet their targets. These require a lot of internatoinal cooperation that go against the capitalist system. We need much more altruism in order for SDGs to be met. However, there were environmental global agreements that were succesful and managed to achieve their targets.