Climate change has emerged as one of the most pressing issues of our time, capturing headlines and sparking debates across various platforms. Prominent activists like Greta Thunberg highlight its urgency, while critics argue that the situation is more nuanced than it appears.

The phrase "it's not so simple" seems to resonate widely, but while the situation isn't straightforward, it’s also not insurmountable. In this piece, I aim to offer a fresh perspective, present alternative viewpoints on our challenges, and propose actionable solutions based on real-world examples.

Firstly, it’s important to acknowledge that climate change is not our sole concern. In 2015, the Stockholm Resilience Center introduced a framework for understanding planetary boundaries, revealing how we exceed these limits across nine critical areas.

As illustrated, factors like biosphere integrity and biochemical flows are more significantly exceeded than climate change itself. Issues such as nitrogen depletion and biodiversity loss pose higher risks. Interestingly, concerns that dominated discussions in the past, like ozone layer depletion, currently seem to be manageable.

For those seeking deeper insight, I encourage exploration of the Stockholm Resilience Center's publications. Their 2015 paper has sparked considerable dialogue, with ongoing improvements to the underlying models through collaborative scientific inquiry.

Returning to our initial question: while we now understand that climate change may not be our most critical issue, does it matter? I believe it does not—at least not in the context of the broader challenges we face.

Discussions about who is right or wrong often detract from addressing the core issues and finding viable solutions. In a recent response to an article by Catalin Matei, I suggested that while Greta may not be entirely correct in her focus, it does not negate the existence of serious problems.

Indeed, we are confronted with multiple challenges that cannot be ignored. If humanity fails to learn to operate within planetary boundaries, the consequences will only escalate. A sense of urgency is essential.

Although it may seem irrelevant to frame climate change as our primary concern, this perspective becomes crucial when devising solutions. We must avoid a narrow focus solely on climate change, as simply capturing CO2 will not resolve our myriad issues.

To tackle these interconnected challenges, we need a systemic approach. Solutions should address multiple problems without generating new ones.

For instance, renewable energy alone cannot be the complete answer. The scarcity of essential metals limits our capacity to produce sufficient wind turbines, solar panels, and hydroelectric systems, while our energy consumption continues to rise. Additionally, waterway damming exacerbates freshwater scarcity.

Consider the article by Logic Magazine discussing the implications of lithium mining:

It is clear that relying solely on renewable energy with current technologies is misguided. We must explore local renewable energy sources and consider diverse energy grids while also focusing on energy efficiency. Biomimicry offers valuable insights in this regard.

New technologies, such as nanotechnology batteries derived from widely available materials, and innovations like Thorium energy present exciting alternatives for exploration.

To make informed decisions, we must view problems in relation to one another. While I don’t have all the answers, I encourage open discussion and examination of our options.

A vital piece of advice: avoid tunnel vision! We have previously dismissed promising technologies due to their potential disruption to established norms. The urgency of our situation compels us to reconsider this stance.

Systemic thinking is pivotal. While it may seem complex, it simply requires a shift in approach rather than being inherently difficult. Embracing radical choices about our priorities can lead to simpler solutions.

It's about phasing out what we reject and fostering what we embrace—one step at a time, building a foundation for future progress.

“Any intelligent fool can make things bigger, more complex, and more violent. It takes a touch of genius — and a lot of courage — to move in the opposite direction.” ? E.F. Schumacher

Now, let’s explore actionable steps to address our challenges:

• Assess problems in relation to each other.
• Identify nature-based solutions that tackle multiple issues without causing harm.
• Prioritize solutions that require minimal effort for maximum impact.
• Aim for a diverse range of flexible solutions tailored to local contexts.
• Combine solutions that yield immediate benefits with those offering long-term impact.

To transition from theory to practice, let’s examine a real-world scenario. In the Netherlands, our government sought quick fixes for nitrogen levels and PFAS contamination but faced legal challenges that halted building permits and agricultural expansion, sparking protests.

This fear is understandable; farmers are grappling with uncertain futures. Children are even asking, “Can I still become a farmer?”—a poignant question reflecting widespread anxiety.

To find solutions, we must identify connecting factors. For instance, nitrogen and PFAS are found in the soil, and healthy soil can absorb CO2. Therefore, focusing on soil health could be a key aspect of our solutions.

In an article I wrote, I outlined how healthy soil can mitigate climate change while we pursue other nature-based strategies.

Long-term, we need a vision that aligns societal values—health, love, and basic needs—with environmental sustainability. This vision should transcend monetary metrics, addressing the need for clean water, air, food, and overall well-being.

Governments should enact laws to phase out harmful technologies like PFAS and redirect subsidies to support beneficial innovations. Entrepreneurs play a crucial role by developing nature-inspired technologies that create jobs and foster positive change.

Individuals must also engage in their communities, nurturing diversity and spending consciously on what truly matters.

In addressing nitrogen and PFAS issues, potential actions include:

• Phasing out harmful technologies while investing in future-oriented solutions.
• Providing subsidies to farmers transitioning to organic practices that promote soil health.
• Encouraging the building sector to adopt sustainable practices using local materials.
• Optimizing urban spaces to address housing shortages without encroaching on agricultural land.
• Utilizing neglected urban areas for regenerative projects.

Above all, we should cultivate kindness and inspiration rather than judgment. There is no singular correct approach; numerous possibilities exist for qualitative growth. If we doubt that the economy can thrive this way, it’s time to rethink our assumptions.

Let’s embark on this journey as an experiment, moving forward without the fear of failure. By taking flexible steps, we can adapt as needed and avoid future technological constraints.

Life is inherently about change. Let’s embrace experimentation, motivate one another, and enjoy the process along the way.

For inspiration regarding future technologies, I recommend exploring the 100 technologies identified by Project Drawdown.

Additionally, check out articles in the Guardian that discuss innovative technologies for the built environment. Exciting advancements are emerging worldwide, and countless nature-based solutions remain unexplored.

I firmly believe that aligning human priorities with environmental needs necessitates a focus on nature-based solutions. The principles of the Blue Economy guide us in identifying what propels us forward and what does not. We should aim for biodegradable materials and locally sourced resources, utilizing the natural conditions found on-site.

Let’s dedicate our efforts to physics, biology, and green chemistry. We must shift our investments from projects that harm the planet to those that help us operate within its limits, creating jobs in sustainable sectors.

Currently, many individuals struggle to grasp the bigger picture. I agree with economist Angela Francis that we shouldn’t force these issues to the forefront of public discourse. Instead, we should demonstrate how the right decisions can enhance everyday life.

“It’s not so simple,” but we can certainly clarify our priorities and take meaningful action.

For anyone interested in discussing or connecting, feel free to reach out via LinkedIn, Facebook, or while enjoying the wonders of nature.