May the Fourth Be With You!

Don’t tell me you didn’t know Star Wars and Sustainability are linked!

Happy Friday friends.

You’ll be very aware that I like to celebrate all the big days, Earth Day, International Women in Science Day, International Talk Like a Pirate Day etc… but tomorrow cannot go by without a mention, one of my stone-bonking all-time favourite days of the year, May the 4^th, aka Star Wars Day!

In a galaxy far, far away, where x-wing fighters soar through the cosmos and The Force binds everything together, there lies a hidden lesson that resonates with our own planet: the importance of environmental sustainability. While Star Wars is renowned for its epic tear ups (tear ups: London cockney descriptive term for as fight or battle or scrap) between Jedis and the dark side, and the struggle for balance in the Force, beneath the surface lies a narrative that speaks to the need for harmony with nature and the preservation of our resources.

Imagine the lush forests of Endor, home to the Ewoks, whose connection to their natural surroundings mirrors our own relationship with Earth. These cute furry inhabitants of the forest live in harmony with their environment, utilizing natural resources wisely and respecting the delicate balance of life. Just as the Ewoks understand the importance of preserving their home, we too must recognize the significance of protecting our planet for future generations.

The destruction of Alderaan by the Death Star serves as a stark reminder of the consequences of unchecked power and disregard for life. Much like the wanton destruction of our own natural habitats through deforestation and pollution, the obliteration of Alderaan underscores the need for responsible stewardship of our planet. We must heed the lessons of Alderaan and strive to preserve the beauty and diversity of our own world.

Moreover, the notion of balance in the Force reflects the interconnectedness of all living things, echoing the delicate balance of ecosystems on Earth. Just as the Force binds the galaxy together, so too are we bound to our planet and its inhabitants. Any disturbance to this balance reverberates throughout the natural world, affecting everything from climate patterns to biodiversity. By embracing sustainability practices, we can work to restore this balance and ensure a harmonious coexistence with nature.

The desert planet of Tatooine offers another perspective on sustainability, as its harsh environment forces inhabitants to adapt and conserve resources. From moisture farms to the humble lifestyle of its residents, Tatooine serves as a reminder of the importance of resilience and resourcefulness in the face of adversity. In a world where water is scarce and every drop is precious, the people of Tatooine exemplify the principles of sustainability through their efficient use of resources.

Even the Jedi themselves embody the values of environmental stewardship, as they are tasked with preserving peace and balance in the galaxy. Just as they protect the innocent and defend the weak, so too must we safeguard the natural world and ensure its vitality for future generations. Like the Jedi, we have a responsibility to use our knowledge and abilities for the greater good, working tirelessly to protect and preserve the environment.

In the battle against the oppressive forces of the Empire, the Rebel Alliance demonstrates the power of collective action and grassroots movements in effecting change. Similarly, in the fight against climate change and environmental degradation, we must come together as a global community to address these pressing issues. By uniting our efforts and working towards common goals, we can overcome any obstacle and build a more sustainable future for all.

In conclusion, Star Wars offers more than just thrilling space battles and epic lightsabre duels—it also imparts valuable lessons about the importance of environmental sustainability. From the lush forests of Endor to the barren deserts of Tatooine, the galaxy far, far away serves as a mirror to our own planet, reminding us of the need to cherish and protect the natural world. By embracing the principles of sustainability and acting as responsible stewards of the environment, we can ensure a brighter future for generations to come.

This week’s cheesy song link is an absolute 80s banger as always, hit the link!

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jL8AgEzg5fI

My favourite quote form Yoda in Return of the Jedi is when Luke Skywalker is trying to get his spacecraft out of the swamp. Yoda tells him to use the force and he say’s to Yoda “Ok, I’ll try”. Yoda replies, “ Try not. Do or do not, there is no try!”

It’s a simple lesson about commitment and the power of giving something our all, not just giving it a try.

It’s time we did adopted the same ideology with decarbonising our energy and transport systems. Last night’s BBC programme evidenced how offsetting and carbon credits are open to abuse and corruption allowing big players to greenwash instead of making real progress.

If we’re going to halt climate change we really need to stop burning things to make energy, but we really need to just do it, not try.