While the crisis has brought climate change into focus for some, others believe recovery can only happen via a more inclusive society or with greater use of digital technology. Not sure where you stand? Take the test!
1. For you, degrowth is:
A. The only possible way to reduce global over-consumption and production that is depleting our ecosystems.
B. A necessary reflection on what is necessary (or not) in our lives in order to balance progress, human development and ecological transition.
C. Taking a step backwards and disabling progress, no thanks!
D. Impossible! The whole system is based on growth and the pursuit of profit and it’s not about to change any time soon.
2. How do you feel about Green Tech (technological innovations that promote environmental transition)?
A. Gadgets that don’t fundamentally challenge our over-consumption and production models.
B. Why not, if it enables us to better measure energy consumption and reduce CO2 emissions. But these innovations must go hand-in-hand with awareness-raising measures for a real change in consciousness and behaviour.
C. These are great tools for creating jobs – these are the start-ups to invest in!
D. But what will these start-ups do with our data?
3. Remote or distance working, learning, medicine etc became widely used during the lockdown. For you, this seems:
A. A necessary eco-evolution to reduce emissions from transport, so long as data centres also become more efficient.
B. An excellent initiative to enable greater access to essential services while reducing social isolation.
C. Real progress, a lasting trend thanks to the latest tech. I’m a fan of video!
D. Promoting even fewer “real” social bonds. Is this really what we want?
4. For you, e-learning is:
A. A promising tool, but one that still raises the same environmental issues as working from home.
B. Great for driving socio-economic development on all continents!
C. Simply essential. Digital education and education about digital!
D. Not really effective in terms of providing real solutions for equal opportunities.
5. Dynamic and innovative young start-ups are more agile and can adapt better to risks. They can therefore bounce back faster in the event of a crisis. For you this means:
A. Some are more eco-conscious than more established companies so they’re interesting to watch.
B. New jobs and concrete solutions that can help reduce inequalities. They should be supported!
C. A great way to test out innovations that make life easier.
D. The next best thing or just a fad? I’m not sure.
6. The lockdown was a forced break for people who wanted to change their lifestyle or consumption patterns. Have you adopted any new habits?
A. From organic to homemade and second-hand, I’m only buying eco-friendly products. I’m eating and spending more wisely!
B. To support the local economy, I started to buy from local suppliers. It’s a great way to support farmers.
C. I mainly bought items online – it’s so much quicker and more convenient as I don’t have to go anywhere!
D. I haven’t really changed anything. It’s up to governments and businesses to influence society and the economy.
7. The lockdown led to an outpouring of solidarity between individuals, businesses and governments. For you…
A. I hope this momentum is accompanied by a more global awareness of the world around us. We must protect all living things to save the planet.
B. If it continues, the crisis will increase inequality and accentuate vulnerable communities so we have to stick together!
C. It’s great to be able to use social networks for this type of initiative. I even downloaded an app so that I could help the elderly in my neighbourhood.
D. It’s only temporary. Individualism will take over again.