Leaders are faced with challenges of many varieties, which are often the outcome of the actions of those who came before them. In the case of our global climate crisis, it is actually the lack of action by previous leaders that resulted in the current levels of pollution, deforestation, burning of fossil fuels, and vast production of waste. It is more important now than ever before to lead by example and practice sustainable leadership.
Leaders at all levels can make a difference by setting examples and being mindful when it comes to sustainable practices. You do not need to be a sustainability expert to begin sustainable practices. It can stem from the smallest action like showing up to events or meetings with a reusable water bottle, reusing what can be, and placing waste and recycling in the proper bins. These actions may seem monotonous, but they are noticeable and over time become instinctive. Once you develop a better understanding of your impact on the environment, you can take it to the next level and research how else you can decrease your carbon footprint on the planet.
It is important to remember that leadership is about continuously learning and developing skills to not only better yourself, but the people around you as well. While many people are becoming sustainably aware and looking into their negative impact on the environment, some may be at a different level than you. This is the part about leadership that is so significant; leaders do not lead to engrave their beliefs and practices on others, rather help others discover their strengths and give them the opportunity to improve them. The same goes for sustainable practices, be an example to others and if they show interest give them the tools to learn and develop sustainable practices. In return, they will carry these practices onto the next group and they can lead by example too.
I challenge you to use your various leadership platforms to explore sustainable practices and start by implementing them into your daily life. Don’t be hesitant to expand your knowledge and connect these practices to student organizations and what other connections you may have.
*The image is from the launch of the new recycling/waste centers at the Illini Union, which I had the pleasure of planning and leading in the Spring of 2021*
