Interconnectedness of the Goals: Goal 12 & Goal 14
Updated: Nov 4, 2018
Image credit: Paolo Margari
One of the most exciting aspects of the Global Goals is their interconnectedness. Previously, the multiple areas of development have been treated rather separately within their own categories. Now, however, we have a way to explore how social, environmental and economic development are all related to one another. This year, we are exploring how each goal and their associated targets need to see the achievement of each other in order to be fulfilled as a whole.
Goal 12 aims to ensure businesses, governments and individuals adopt both sustainable consumption and sustainable production patterns, and Goal 14 aims to conserve and sustainably make use of the oceans, seas and marine resources.
When we discuss the interconnectedness between Goal 12 and Goal 14, the main focus is the topic of marine pollution. According to Target 14.1, by 2025, we must prevent and significantly reduce marine pollution of all kinds, in particular from land-based activities, including marine debris and nutrient pollution. We can do this by adhering to Target 12.5: By 2030, substantially reduce waste generation through prevention, reduction, recycling and reuse.
It is also important to achieve Target 12.4: By 2020, achieve the environmentally sound management of chemicals and all wastes throughout their life cycle and significantly reduce their release to air, water and soil in order to minimise their adverse impacts on human health and the environment. By doing this, we will be able to manage and protect marine and coastal ecosystems (Target 14.2) and minimise and address the impacts of ocean acidification (Target 14.3).
To find out more about these two goals and their interrelatedness, you can read more by visiting #Goal12: #ResponsibleConsumption and #ResponsibleProduction and #Goal14: #LifeBelowWater.