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How to address Sustainability challenges... Curious?
At Proxima, we pride ourselves on the three core values that guide our endeavours: Be Bold, Be Kind, and Be Curious. While each of these values is fundamental, today, we shine a light on curiosity. This intrinsic human trait is not only a reflection of our team's personal values but also aligns seamlessly with the overarching purpose of our organisation.
Humanity is currently confronted with some of the most daunting challenges in our history—climate change, biodiversity losses, social disintegration, and geopolitical tensions. These issues demand innovative solutions and a willingness to explore uncharted territories. Curiosity needs to lead in this quest, a vital tool as highlighted in the World Economic Forum's Future of Jobs Report, which lists curiosity among the top skills poised to rise in importance.
Specifically, in the realm of sustainability, curiosity becomes indispensable. It fosters problem-solving by encouraging us to ask the right questions and explore the unknown. Through curiosity, we can draw inspiration from nature, which has thrived for millennia within the boundaries of our planet. Nature, with its intricate systems and resilient mechanisms, offers a masterclass in sustainability. However, as a species, humans have often struggled with system thinking. We often think in a linear way and underestimate the complexity of issues being interconnected. Curiosity can bridge this gap by enabling us to see connections, understand complexities, and devise holistic solutions.
At Proxima , we recognise that some people hire consultants to get direct answers. That’s appropriate for situations that are based on knowledge, e.g. how to calculate a carbon footprint. More often than not, we see ourselves as the ones asking the questions though. By doing so, we believe in collaboratively finding better solutions. For example, in sustainable supply chain management, rather than listing current practices, we might figure out what an ideal outcome may look. For instance, instead of changing to more recyclable plastic packaging, a client may collaborate with the supplier to use returnable crates.
The importance of curiosity extends beyond problem-solving. It fosters a culture of learning and growth, where individuals and organisations alike are encouraged to explore new ideas and challenge the status quo. This culture is vital for creating an environment where innovation thrives and where sustainable practices can be developed and implemented effectively.
As we have observed, humanity has struggled to remain within the planet's boundaries, leading to the pressing need for quick solutions to our sustainability challenges. To navigate this complex landscape, it is imperative that we leverage the power of curiosity. By asking the right questions, we open doors to innovative approaches and holistic solutions that are essential for our survival. If we do not find sustainable solutions through curiosity and promptly, we will have to curb our consumption and abandon pursuits that, while possible, do not contribute to our genuine happiness. This might mean forgoing that extra flight to an exotic destination or resisting the temptation of a fashionable new top.
