This weeks seminar focused on 'The 'Un'Happy Planet Index'
I scored a total 73.3 which seemed pretty average to high when compared to others in my class.
I watched an interesting video by Nic Marcs which got me thinking about the way we relay scientific information on the state of our globe to the public. Constant brain frying numbers and negative headlines will likely scare those into no-action.
The HPI therefore, I believe, is a useful tool in grabbing attention as the public can easily relate to it & lets face it our competitive side means we are keen to know how we score happiness wise or how long we'll live for in comparison to the rest of the world?
This is the starting point that when dug further will lead people into considering there relative quality of life vs. the amount of planets resources they are using to get there.
Governmental policies to encourage sustainable wellbeing, in my opinion, should focus on voluntary regulations, making 'the green stuff' more widely spoken, interesting and easily accessible- ideally working with the media to promote this. I believe is should also focus on local community building and power- the implementation of improved public transport, larger allotment availability (I understand with limited space this would be difficult!) more volunteering opportunities, local food co-ops, better sport & leisure activities etc.
We also looked at how this new idea of well being for sustainability could be measured- I think it's a really tough one actually. I'm still thinking of an idea that would keep estimation and bias to a minimum but that would also be clear and accessible for the public. Maybe we should begin to link in health? I liked on one of my classmates blogs the idea of having wellbeing publicised next to the FTSE etc on the evening news! I'll keep having a think.....!
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