Way back when, around the time of the WTO talks failing in Seattle in ‘99 and the release of Naomi Klein’s ‘No Logo’, globalisation issues became my new rock n’ roll.
As my personal journey of discovery around global economics evolved, I started to get as much of a buzz from going to a new economics foundation or LSE lecture as I did from taking in the sights, sounds and pleasures of a debauched British summer music festival like Glastonbury. (Possibly not something to admit in public, but transparency is important!)
Yesterday, I went to Tomorrow’s Company’s event on
Qualitative Growth at the
House of Lords, with Hazel Henderson beamed in via satellite from Florida and a
short recording of Fritjof Capra. While everything they spoke about resounded as clearly as that PJ Harvey performance in a Somerset field back in 2005, what struck me most was not their words, but the situation itself.
Of course, the content – talk of redefining economic growth and re-shaping globalisation toward sustainability – was music to my ears (though nothing new to me). But it was the fact that we were at the House of Lords, complete with politicians, big business representatives (formerly 'the enemy', now 'the ones in prime position for spearheading sustainability leadership') and movers and shakers from the sustainability movement talking about the theories actually becoming a reality that was a total boost of hope.
From Gordon Brown’s unexpected backing for the consideration of a Tobin Tax over the weekend to the healthcare reform bill passed by the US House of Representatives on the 7th of November, the potential for bringing in real and systemic change to replace the collapsing pillars of our society seems closer than ever.
Times they are a changing. But is there enough time for the big transformation necessary before we reach the point of no return? My honest belief (for the first time in years) is that ‘yes, there is’, but at what cost?
While the death of the old economy will bring with it unforeseen and unpredictable levels of social, economic and environmental suffering and loss after years of exploitation, the birth of a new era might just bring the healthy, happy and sustainable future we’ve all been dreaming of.
While it’s going to be a tough road ahead, I salute the brave politicians, activists, business leaders and Hazel Hendersons of this world who remain solid, determined and courageous in working to build the future we all deserve.
Time is short, so let’s get to it.
Cyndi Rhoades, CEO Worn Again, www.wornagain.co.uk