Shifting Our Perspective to Consider Future Generations Can Lead to More Sustainable Decision-Making Processes

Wednesday - March 27 2024, 10:08 UTC - 8 months ago

Researchers at Osaka University held workshops in which participants imagined themselves in the year 2040 and considered the perspective of “imaginary future generations.” This exercise led to a shift in thinking about technological advancements and society, with a greater focus on sustainability. By considering the needs and perspectives of future generations, we can make more informed and sustainable decisions for the betterment of the future.

The looming environmental crisis has made it clear that the choices we make today have a significant impact on the future. However, most sustainable thought tends to be limited to the viewpoint of current generations, neglecting the needs and perspectives of future generations. But what if we shifted our perspective to imagine ourselves as members of an imaginary future society? Researchers at Osaka University have discovered the value in considering sustainability issues through the lens of “imaginary future generations.” .

The study, published in Technological Forecasting and Social Change, describes a series of workshops in which participants were asked to think about the future of society and manufacturing, as well as the potential impact of a specific technology: hydrothermally produced porous glass. This technology is incredibly useful as a filter or insulator, and has the added benefit of being endlessly recyclable. However, the process of producing it requires a significant amount of energy.

“The trade-offs involved in this technology make it a perfect case study for examining the intergenerational implications of technological advancements,” explains lead author Keishiro Hara. “During the workshops, the participants were invited to consider the technology from the viewpoint of “imaginary future generations” and imagine how it might be adopted and utilized in the future.” .

The results of the workshops were eye-opening. The participants described a future society in which sustainability is a top priority, and advancements in renewable energy have made resources abundant. This context makes hydrothermally produced porous glass an even more attractive option for recycling and utilizing waste glass, as the energy needed to produce it is readily available.

The researchers also surveyed the participants before and after the workshops. Interestingly, the rankings of future potentiality for the technology changed significantly after the workshops in which the “imaginary future generations” perspective was adopted. This suggests that shifting our perspective and considering the needs and perspectives of future generations can lead to more informed and sustainable decision-making processes.

By taking on the viewpoint of future generations, we can gain valuable insights into technology and society and reassess our current attitudes and assumptions. As we stand on the brink of important environmental decisions, it is crucial that we consider the long-term implications of our actions for the sake of future generations.