Decentral Block Post

In episode 12, we recap the series and look at what consumerism should and could look like going forward. Our speakers bring expertise in the circular economy, plastics and biomimicry, and each has a view on policy and responsibilities. Today, most producers and a growing number of consumers will not deny there is a problem with the take, make and dispose model, but there is, and will be, a groundswell of roadblocks. From monolithic governments to multinationals and start-ups, our speakers bring solutions, which are taking advantage of technological advantages or have been staring at us for centuries – or both.

In episode 12, we recap the series and look at what consumerism should and could look like going forward. Our speakers bring expertise in the circular economy, plastics and biomimicry, and each has a view on policy and responsibilities. Today, most producers and a growing number of consumers will not deny there is a problem with the take, make and dispose model, but there is, and will be, a groundswell of roadblocks. From monolithic governments to multinationals and start-ups, our speakers bring solutions, which are taking advantage of technological advantages or have been staring at us for centuries – or both.

In episode 11, we scrutinise ethics. Today, profits, gross domestic product and growth take precedence over our environment, health and happiness, regardless of the consequences. We explore how we can realistically and holistically change this. After all, hundreds of millions of individuals globally are unable to meet their needs, all while subsidising the affluent and powerful. Private sector must refrain from congratulating itself for selective, superficial, incremental steps, especially when making decisions thousands of miles away from the people and environment that they affect. We address why governments must not abdicate responsibility, even if it means listening to those who may not have deep pockets or degrees, but who know a decent quality of life means. Consumers must also feel agency. As ever, our speakers share some practical lessons we can all learn from.

In episode 11, we scrutinise ethics. Today, profits, gross domestic product and growth take precedence over our environment, health and happiness, regardless of the consequences. We explore how we can realistically and holistically change this. After all, hundreds of millions of individuals globally are unable to meet their needs, all while subsidising the affluent and powerful. Private sector must refrain from congratulating itself for selective, superficial, incremental steps, especially when making decisions thousands of miles away from the people and environment that they affect. We address why governments must not abdicate responsibility, even if it means listening to those who may not have deep pockets or degrees, but who know a decent quality of life means. Consumers must also feel agency. As ever, our speakers share some practical lessons we can all learn from.

The financial and capital markets keep economies moving. Episode 10 explores the role of investors – who secure public funds, underpin multinational companies and enable startups to connect and scale – in sustainable production and consumption. We talk about the importance of managing risk and streamlining standards and disclosure that do not deter issuers, but still give investors confidence – all whilehowthey assess and fund companies is evolving. Monetising impact and patient capital are high on the agenda. Regulators are increasingly focused on sustainability, and this is predicted to take even more momentum in the future. Our speakers give recommendations, from credit ratings integrating environment, social and governance metrics, to the investor community and products diversifying further so as to distribute capital more equitably.