Sustainability Bites

There is no such thing as a free lunch

complex systems

Don’t think this is rational – it’s a mad, mad world. The revelations of bowing to BAU.

Don’t think this is rational – it’s a mad, mad world. The revelations of bowing to BAU.

Jul 11, 2023 | , , , , , ,

Climate scientists of all types have been forecasting these consequences for decades but we’ve done nothing. Now we’re reeling as the water laps at our doors and the smoke chokes our air. In the world we have, a complex world, today’s decisions are driven by past investments, vested interests, political compromises, and an overwhelming inertia not to buck the status quo. BAU (business as usual) rules, it’s our society’s identity. Maybe we should stop kidding ourselves we live in a rational world.

Losing it – the consequences of stepping over the threshold

Losing it – the consequences of stepping over the threshold

Sep 27, 2022 | , , ,

There are limits to how much a complex system can be changed and still recover. Beyond those limits the system functions differently because some critical feedback process has changed. These limits are known as thresholds. Sometimes it’s easy to cross back over to the identity you want, sometimes it’s difficult and sometimes it’s impossible. The concept of ‘thresholds’ is central to understanding the resilience of your system.

On identity, complexity and a ‘little’ fossil fuel project off the West Australian coast

On identity, complexity and a ‘little’ fossil fuel project off the West Australian coast

Aug 30, 2022 | , , , , ,

We are all complex units operating in complex groups within a complex Earth System. ‘Simply’ pointing out why the opposite side is wrong may score points with our side but does little to fix the problem. For that to happen we need a deeper engagement with the complexity in which we find ourselves, and more reflection on what gives us (our tribe and our planet) our identity.

Solving sustainability – It’s complicated AND complex. Do you know the difference?

Solving sustainability – It’s complicated AND complex. Do you know the difference?

Jul 5, 2022 | , , ,

Why is climate change so difficult to solve? Because it’s a complex problem and complexity is something humans don’t deal with well. Our political leaders will tell you they are in control, and that they have a plan, a simple solution that solves the problem of climate change without anyone having to change. Simple solutions never solve complex problems but they can make them worse.

The wicked problem of complexity on the Great Barrier Reef

The wicked problem of complexity on the Great Barrier Reef

Jul 1, 2021 | ,

The challenge then is not to better define the biophysical truth and expect politicians to change but to reform our governance such that it responds appropriately to ecosystem decline and collapse. For this to happen we need demonstrate to voters why that biophysical truth is important to the values they help dear and why they must hold our politicians to account.