Earth4All: A Blueprint for Urgent Collaboration and Action | A Call on Earth Day 2024 for Chinese Universities

The book "Earth for All" published in 2023 left a profound impact on me and my lifestyle. Authored by leading thinkers including Sandrine Dixson-Declève, Owen Gaffney, Jayati Ghosh, Jørgen Randers, Johan Rockström, and Per Espen Stoknes, this collaborative effort between the 21st Century Transformational Economics Commission and the Systems Analysis and Modeling Team presents a compelling vision of our planet's future over the coming decades.

The first takeaway from "Earth4All" is the profound sense of urgency it instills regarding the severity of ecological and societal crises we face. The authors' research exposes the deep roots of ecosystem collapse and social inequality, warning of the colossal costs our descendants will bear if urgent action is not taken. This stark depiction is both shocking and motivating, compelling us to consider how we can avert such crises.

Another striking aspect of the book is its emphasis on collaboration as a new approach to tackling complex global challenges. With authors hailing from diverse fields, their multifaceted perspectives provide profound insights and innovative solutions. Throughout the book, they emphasize the spirit of collaboration and interdisciplinary approaches—underscoring that only by working together can effective solutions be found to address these pressing issues.

Furthermore, the book underscores the urgency of action. It not only identifies problems but also serves as a call to action (appropriately subtitled as a "survival guide"). The authors urge everyone to participate in addressing these issues, emphasizing the power and responsibility of individuals to be part of the necessary transformation.

The value of "Earth4All" lies not only in its depiction of the severity of our challenges but also in providing hope and pathways to solutions. It paints a vision of a sustainable and just future while offering practical tools and strategies to realize this vision. The book has spurred deep reflection and a renewed desire for action within me.

Having completed "Earth4All: A Survival Guide for Humanity," I am deeply moved and inspired. I strongly believe that such works should be included in Chinese universities' general education curricula. While students pursue various majors and careers, they should also be encouraged to examine our collective human future from a broader perspective and reflect on what they can contribute. "Earth4All" goes beyond scientific and environmental concerns, delving into social inequality and global challenges. General education aims to cultivate well-rounded individuals capable of multidisciplinary thinking, lifelong learning, critical reasoning, effective communication, and a sense of social responsibility. It exposes students to diverse fields, expanding their understanding of broader societal, cultural, and global issues. For university students on the brink of entering society, reading this book can broaden their horizons, enhance their awareness of global issues, and foster global citizenship — a fundamental attribute of a new era's civilized global citizens.

This book serves as a powerful warning and a call to action, presenting our challenges while offering hope and solutions. It's a book worth reading carefully, offering guidance not only for policymakers but also for everyone. On the occasion of the Earth Day 2024, I hope to see more such impactful books recommended for university general education reading lists.

Author: Shen Yihang

Editor: Daisy

Contact: v10@cbcgdf.org; +8617319454776

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