Taking a walk on the sustainable side with David de Rothschild
5 minute read
For David de Rothschild, staying curious is crucial to promoting greater sustainability at home and worldwide. He believes asking new questions and challenging paradigms can drive climate-friendly innovations while setting the stage for even more significant breakthroughs.
Metropolises with a mission
Our bustling cities are a tribute to human ambition and the vibrancy of life. Every year, they draw millions with endless possibilities and activities, where everything can be had or experienced 24/7. But between shimmering skyscrapers and the ebb and flow of city life, there is another energy whose brilliance is transforming the urban landscape - nature!
Greening the urban jungle
There is no rule that says concrete and chlorophyll cannot exist together and mutually benefit one another. Today, people grow produce on rooftop farms high above the hustle and bustle of city life, and skyscrapers with vast vertical gardens are no longer a thing of science fiction. Imagine towering buildings with living walls, each one a miniature ecosystem that breathes life into the urban landscape. As lush, green havens for birds and insects, these structures capture the sun's power while reducing our reliance on energy for heating and cooling. By migrating the heat rising from city streets, they offer citizens and animals cooling relief from the relentless sun.
Cities equipped with rain gardens and bioswales can use and reuse much-needed water, thus reducing dependence on already-burdened sources. Such structures can catch and channel stormwater while filtering it for further use. As a natural protection against flooding caused by excessive water runoff, these structures remind us of what is possible if we partner with nature.
Expanding green areas such as urban forests and public gardens also breathe new life into the metropolitan landscape. As an aesthetic and environmental plus, they serve as an oasis for people to escape the city's hectic pace, relax, and commune with nature. Their function as "green lungs" means they also absorb C02 while supporting urban wildlife.
By incorporating nature-based solutions into urban planning, we can enhance cities’ resilience to climate change while laying the foundation for a sustainable future.
New solutions based on old wisdom
Even the most modern metropolis can trace its history back to those who initially settled in the area. The wisdom of those Indigenous inhabitants and their descendants can play a central role in a city's sustainable future. Although Indigenous communities account for only 5% of the world's population, they safeguard an astounding 80% of the Earth's biodiversity. Their deep-rooted knowledge of and connection to the land offer invaluable insights into sustainable practices that have withstood the test of time.
One inspiring example of Indigenous wisdom in action can be found on Jeju Island, South Korea, where I visited the Haenyeo women, who have been practicing sustainable seafood harvesting for centuries. I was both amazed and deeply impressed by these female divers, known for their exceptional breath-holding abilities and profound understanding and stewardship of the marine ecosystem. By passing down their knowledge and practices from generation to generation, they not only supply urban centers with high-quality seafood but also invest in the health and future of the ecosystems that sustain them. This is just one of many examples of how integrating Indigenous wisdom and worldviews into our environmental strategies is essential for creating compelling and equitable solutions. By learning from the original caretakers of the land, we can unlock a wealth of knowledge and practices that can guide us toward a more sustainable and harmonious relationship with the natural world.
Be true to your nature
In my pursuit of more sustainable living, I have always adhered to three basic principles: staying connected with nature, fostering curiosity, and questioning the status quo. Maintaining a connection to the natural world is an essential part of my life. I find comfort and inspiration in spending time outdoors, whether I'm tending to my urban garden, hiking on local trails, or simply observing the changing seasons. This deep appreciation for the natural environment has given me a profound respect for its delicate balance and a strong desire to protect it.
Sustainability starts with oneself
Of course, even the most significant sustainability plans, rely on the commitment, vision, and implementation of citizens willing to make a difference. Whether at home or abroad, I have tried to be an example by staying curious and open to new impulses and perspectives, even if they challenge my existing beliefs. This mindset has helped me to discover innovative sustainable practices, from experimenting with renewable energy solutions to exploring the world of zero-waste living. By constantly questioning processes and their impact, I have found more eco-friendly alternatives that align with my values.
Perhaps most importantly, I have learned to challenge the status quo. I refuse to accept dominant narratives or the "it's always been that way" platitudes. Instead, I actively seek opportunities to disrupt conventional approaches to sustainability. This strategy can involve advocating for policy changes, supporting local and ethical businesses, or inspiring my community to rethink their consumption habits.
Hyundai, a leader in the automotive industry, has been at the forefront of this transition by investing heavily in electric vehicles (EVs) and hydrogen technology. This commitment addresses the urgent need for sustainable transportation and sets an example for other industries and automakers to follow. By prioritizing renewable energy solutions, we can create a future that is environmentally sustainable, economically viable, and enjoyable.
A lifelong commitment
I am happy to have embarked on a deeply fulfilling journey toward a more sustainable lifestyle by staying connected to nature, nurturing my curiosity, and challenging the status quo. This path is constantly evolving and filled with victories and setbacks. But regardless of what opportunities or challenges are around the corner, I am committed to pursuing them with an open mind and a steadfast determination to positively impact the world around me.
Follow @hyundai on Instagram and see how Hyundai and David de Rothschild are driving change together.
* This journal is based on the personal experiences and insights of David de Rothschild.