There is Chemistry Here. Part X. Consumption, Responsible Production and Expectations of the Sustainable Development Goals

Abstract

This article aims to provide an overview of several consumption and production-related issues associated with global warming, extreme weather events, and the depletion of natural resources. More specifically to look in particular at number 12 of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) established by the United Nations (UN). Production and consumption systems are constantly expanding and negatively correlate with sustainability and do not meet the expectations of the SDGs. It is not enough to produce environmentally healthy and sustainable goods and products without changing the consumption patterns of humanity. The concept of sustainable consumption and production needs to be contextualized within social, cultural, and historical actions. It is important to analyze the various issues that are related to the consumption of natural capital and the production of goods for society and how these activities are in line with the expectations established for the SDGs. SDG No 12 is strictly connected with other SDGs, in particular with SDGs No 2 and 4, as they deal with achieving zero hunger and education for sustainability, given that the intensity of consumption and production of goods in the world are also influenced by neoliberal education policies. The SDGs are the instruments that were developed by the UN to combat climate change and environmental degradation, which lead to floods, desertification, drought, species extinction with loss of biodiversity, hunger, poverty, contamination of lake, river and ocean waters, etc. The product marketing campaigns made by corporations must stimulate attitudes in society to rationally encourage sustainable consumption, since consumption habits can be modified, even if they come from cultural and/or social practices and reduction of food waste. All published studies indicate that it is imperative for sustainability that governments, companies and society encourage rational consumption and environmental protection.