You don’t have to dream big
We do not choose what we dream. At best, we can choose which of our many dreams we pursue.
We do not choose what we dream. At best, we can choose which of our many dreams we pursue.
There is actually significant overlap between my shoulding and what I genuinely want to do. And yet, these aspirations can be so much more liberating, joyful, and easeful than I’ve made them in the past.
Indonesia has shut down its final coal-fired power plant, completing a phase-out one year ahead of its 2040 target and retiring more than 50,000 megawatts of coal capacity over 15 years. Renewables now power 65% of the country’s grid, led by solar alongside geothermal, hydro, and wind. For the world’s former fifth-largest coal power generator, the finish line arrived early.
After decades of fossil fuel dominance in household heating systems, climate-friendly heat pumps become the most common option across the world’s biggest economy. The 2020s and 30s see exponential growth in heat pump sales due to increased public urgency on climate, growing consumer awareness about heat pumps, aggressive government rebates, and improved technology that allows heat pumps to withstand even bitterly cold winters.
In a major milestone for climate action, all of the world’s coal plants are closed in favor of cleaner energy alternatives. The achievement not only helps repair damaged ecosystems and stabilize planetary climate systems, but also saves millions of human lives due to improved air and water quality.
In 2040 C.E., the global child mortality rate dropped below 2.5 percent, a historic first for humanity. This milestone resulted from decentralized healthcare, universal clean water access, and a revolution in maternal immunization. By ensuring more than 97.5 percent of children survive past age five, the global community has secured a healthier and more equitable future for all.
In 2040, the global community celebrates the total restoration of the ozone layer to its pre-industrial state. By eliminating 99% of harmful chemicals through the Montreal Protocol, nations successfully repaired the Earth’s protective shield against ultraviolet radiation. This milestone proves that science-led international cooperation can resolve existential environmental threats and secure a healthier future for all life on Earth.
In 1995, just 11% of parliamentarians in single or lower houses worldwide were women. By 2023, this had risen to over 26%. By 2040, humanity hits a transformative milestone as women occupy 40% of global parliamentary seats leading to improved governance in countries around the world.
In the 2020s, the European Union set a target of at least 50% of electricity supplied by wind by 2050. However, due to the accelerating economic viability of renewables and heightened political urgency, it accomplishes this major climate milestone years ahead of schedule in a major win for climate action.
You are not a hero. I am not a hero. None of us is. We are not going to save the world on our own. We need to cultivate the ecosystem of change.