Social justice is a developing area focused on equal opportunities for all, regardless of race, culture, and background. This includes human rights, equality in life, cultural identity, ethnic identity, sexuality, and age. With the media glorifying certain ideas, there are stereotypes associated with gender, age, race, and cultural background -- this causes prejudice against these groups. These types of prejudices have prompted universal protests, such as the Black Lives Matter (BLM) movement. BLM has spread worldwide and has captured the attention of millions, shedding light on atrocious police brutality committed against the black community for the colour of their skin. However, the issue of police brutality is not the only social justice issue in the world. Social justice emphasizes the importance of equality, regardless of race, culture, or background. As a result, social justice is something that needs to be considered in order for everyone to achieve a safer future.
“Sustainable development is the concept of development and economic growth that meets the needs of the future, without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs” (Global Sustainability Hub).
The Earth has experienced changes due to arising environmental issues. For example, the frequency and intensity of extreme weather events, such as hurricanes, have tripled. Other implications include rising sea levels, increased ocean acidification, and rainfall patterns. Another issue is climate change which occurs when we create too much greenhouse gas emissions through the extensive use of fossil fuels. Preventing further climate change requires us to be sustainable. This means living in a way that allows us to survive without compromising the ability for future generations to survive. Even though progress has been made towards creating more sustainable consumption habits, our rate of resource use still outpaces it. Without further innovation, we will have to turn to extreme measures, such as rewilding, to ensure our ability, as well as that of many other species, to even survive. From energy conservation to planting seeds to eating local foods, there are several different ways of achieving sustainability. It is everyone’s responsibility to take care of the earth in which we live.
Technology is very powerful. Anyone can use technology; it can help us accomplish many things and connect with people virtually. While social media platforms provide a way to communicate with one another, it’s also given people a sense of anonymity that we wouldn’t otherwise find in the real world. This is dangerous, as it can foster online negativity and cyberbullying. Despite guidelines and community rules, there are still hostile users and disrespectful comments on social media. As a result, many suffer from its harmful effects and develop mental health issues. There have been many instances of cyberbullying leading to the deterioration of one’s mental health -- sometimes, if extreme, resulting in suicide. Thus, online negativity is a real issue that needs to be dealt with. Social media can affect all of us; hence, we need to take action and limit online negativity.
Many technologies today, such as IoT (Internet of Things) devices and healthcare devices, are very advanced. An IoT device is an electrical device that can work wirelessly and transmit data; for example, the Google Home or a smart fridge. Anyone with a wireless device and the proper software can use an IoT device. However, because they require many software and hardware materials, these devices are expensive, preventing low-income families from gaining access. The issue stated above extends to healthcare devices. For example, heart rate monitors and These healthcare devices are very efficient and able to rival their human counterparts, positioning them as great healthcare provider tools. Access to healthcare is especially crucial for children and the elderly; they are more at risk due to their uncoordinated body movement and their bodies being more vulnerable to hazards. Without these devices and other proper healthcare equipment (walkers, health monitors etc.), the chance of developing health complications is increased. This may be especially problematic because they are the groups who will likely benefit from accessibility the most. Such accessibility issues are only the beginning — appointment scheduling, medicine, and parking fees can be quite costly as well. These are all barriers to healthcare that will continue to worsen as it will eventually affect all of us as we age.
Education is critical for technical fields as it opens many opportunities for tradespeople and is essential in our livelihood. One cannot be employed in trade without having the proper knowledge or training. With many professionals in the technical fields (woodwork, plumbing, electrician, etc.) retiring, numerous jobs are expected to face a shortage of workers. According to CTV News, a 1.2 million worker shortage in the trades is expected by 2025. Today, there are still stigmas surrounding this field, dissuading potential tradespeople from pursuing this career path. For example, social stigmas concerning women and that the technical fields require long hours of labour. With these stigmas, youth are discouraged from entering the fields due to the negative image they associate with the fields. Another issue is the little support given to aspiring tradespeople regarding their education and current career. For example, there is a lack of exposure for high school students, resulting in fewer people entering the technical fields in the first place. If this issue is not solved, there will be many setbacks in our society and the workforce — such as the increased price of labour — especially since these skills (such as plumbing and electrical) are critical for society’s functioning. The shortage of technically-skilled workers is only one example of a problem that derives from educational issues.