What are the SDGs?

The UN Sustainable Development Goals were established in 2012 with the hopes of tackling worldwide environmental, political, and economic challenges. There are 17 goals that fit within those 3 categories. 

The member states of the United Nations (UN) aim to meet the SDGs by 2030. Yearly reports are done to see the progress the UN and each member state is making toward achieving these goals. 

The SDGs were shaped around global change, but there are still ways to support them on an indvidual level. 

Reduce your waste

SDGs 1, 2, 6, and 7 focus on eradicating poverty, ending world hunger, providing clean water and sanitation worldwide, and increasing access to affordable and clean energy. 

To help achieve these goals, focus on reducing your food and water waste. Also, consider using energy-efficient appliances and light bulbs to lower energy usage. Finally, donate items you no longer use to those who need but may not be able to afford them. 

Make eco-friendly choices

Goals 11, 12, 14, and 15 focus on sustainable communities, responsible consumption and production, life below water, and life on land, respectively. An individual can support these goals by making more sustainable choices in their daily life. 

Consider biking, walking, or using public transportation to support building more sustainable cities and communities. Make sure to recycle materials that can be recycled to be a responsible consumption. Additionally, avoid using single use plastics when possible and plant a tree to support life on land and underwater. 

Take action

Goals 13, 16, and 17 focus on taking action for the climate, human rights, and creating partnerships between countries to achieve global sustainable development. 

To take action for these goals, consider getting involved in climate-focused organizations, , and contact your government officials to express your support for sustainable development. 

Support sustainable development

The remaining SDGs (3, 4, 5, 8, 9, and 10) are focused on the social and economic aspects of sustainable development. These pair well with the environmental focused goals to help make the world a better place. 

Information from the United Nations.