What does it mean to be green? In today’s society it is a word that can dichotomize or unite. Individuals use it to identify themselves as caring f
or the environment. Corporations use it as a way to improve their images, a practice that is degrading its eco-friendly connotation. For
some, it means reducing your carbon footprint by making changes like buying organic food, using natural cleaning products, and buying energy-efficient appliances. The true meaning of being green, however, is more comprehensive, and encompasses the creation of a sustainable society. Several global initiatives have created declarations to clarify these principles and guide the transition to sustainable development, most notably the Global Green Charter and the Earth Charter.
The Global Greens is a worldwide network of Green parties. In 2001, 800 delegates from 72 countries created the Global Green Charter, which specifies 6 guiding principles to being Green.
- Ecological Wisdom
Everything on this planet is connected. Therefore we must ensure the integrity of ecosystems and preserve biodiversity. This requires the protection of all life, and the elements that sustain it, such as water, earth, air, and sun.
- Social justice
Poverty is a source of environmental degradation, as well as a major social, ethical, and economic problem. We must ensure the equal distribution of resources throughout the world, reduce the gap between rich and poor, eliminate illiteracy, and build a new citizenship based on equal rights for all.
- Participatory democracy
All citizens should have the power to influence decisions that affect their lives. This involves providing education, transparency, and returning governance to the local communities.
- Nonviolence
The emphasis of maintaining security should not be placed on the military, but rather on prevention and conflict management. Efforts should be made to remove the causes of war and restrict arms exports.
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