Symposium on Futures Sustainability 2023
On 18 February 2023, the Bachelor of Environmental Studies [BES] hosted the Symposium on Futures Sustainability (SFS) at the Ngee Ann Kongsi Auditorium with support from the Rotary Club of Suntec City. The theme for this year’s SFS was The Blue Economy which provided opportunities for members of the public as well as professionals from diverse backgrounds to discuss the potential of the blue economy for sustainable development. The discussions revolved around the use of ocean resources in a way that is economically beneficial while also promoting the well-being of the ocean and its ecosystems. The speakers from Philip Capital Management, World Bank, and Marine Stewards shared their ideas, experiences, and best practices for a sustainable and resilient blue economy that can provide economic, social, and environmental benefits.
The blue economy is defined as the “sustainable use of ocean resources for economic growth, improved livelihoods, and jobs while preserving the health of the ocean ecosystem” by the World Bank. It has strong potential to provide steady economic growth through business development and job creation while bringing about environmental benefits such as marine conservation and climate change mitigation. It also maintains social well-being through the preservation of livelihoods, especially for coastal communities. Such dialogues are therefore crucial for us to better understand the issues surrounding the blue economy and to learn how we can contribute to driving action.
Mr. See Toh Ee Kin, a third-year Bachelor of Environmental Studies student, reflected that “The Symposium on Future Sustainability provided me with a unique blend of insights from different fields of expertise, ranging from ground-up conservation to investing. It taught me to view the blue economy from different perspectives on a local and regional scale, and the important role marine resources have to play in economic progress as well. The panel discussion was succinct, engaging, and insightful, and I look forward to the next run of SFS in 2024.“
Photos by Ms. Too Fang Ning – Outreach Director, BES 11th Student Committee