Can Curiosity Save the Planet?
Climate change looms as one of the most formidable challenges of our time, demanding urgent action to safeguard the Earth for future generations and species. In the global endeavour to combat this crisis, governments have taken significant strides toward greener policies, while the landscape of climate tech innovations continues to expand. Amidst these efforts, one vital force emerges as a beacon of hope: curiosity.
Curiosity, often hailed as one of the most coveted skills of the 21st century, holds unparalleled significance in our quest for sustainability. In 2023, it ranked among the top five essential skills (World Economic Forum) alongside analytical and creative thinking, highlighting its role in navigating the complexities of our world. Through the lens of curiosity, we are invited to perceive the world differently, to observe, learn, and ultimately, to act.
Some of the most promising climate innovation of recent times has been driven by the curious. Take Microharvest for example. As the world faces an unprecedented challenge to meet a fast-growing protein demand, MicroHarvest is pushing boundaries to deliver the sustainable protein ingredients of the future, harnessing the power of microorganisms. Or Novobiom who are unlocking the power of fungi to revolutionize waste management and build a sustainable future. It’s likely that the founders and core team are strong in curiosity?
Defining Curiosity.
At the Global Curiosity Institute, we advocate a three-dimensional approach to curiosity: curiosity of self, others, and the world. By understanding ourselves, fostering empathy, and addressing knowledge gaps, we pave the way for meaningful progress toward our net-zero targets.
The Urgency of Curiosity.
In the face of mounting environmental challenges, curiosity emerges as our greatest ally. With 2023 marking the hottest year on record and sea levels rising at unprecedented rates, the urgency for solutions has never been clearer. Cultivating curiosity offers a pathway forward, empowering individuals and organizations to innovate and drive meaningful change.
The Relationship between Curiosity and Sustainability.
Curiosity and sustainability are inherently intertwined and support each other. Curiosity empowers us to unravel complex problems and discover innovative solutions, while our connection to nature provides a canvas for observation, learning and the cultivation of curiosity in practice. Together they pave the way for a more sustainable future. Here are 3 key dimensions to explore this relationship further:
1. Activating Curiosity for Problem Solving.
At the heart of the environmental crisis lies a complex web of challenges — from carbon emissions to plastic pollution. Curiosity fosters adaptive problem-solving skills, enabling individuals to navigate uncertainty and devise innovative solutions. By nurturing a curious mindset, we challenge conventions and unlock new perspectives for sustainable progress.
Curiosity researchers differentiate between two types of curiosity: interest-driven and deprivation-driven. Interest-driven curiosity arises from genuine fascination with a subject, driving individuals to seek out knowledge and understanding proactively. On the other hand, deprivation-driven curiosity stems from recognising a gap in one’s knowledge and feeling compelled to fill it. Interestingly, studies suggest that interest-driven curiosity is more conducive to problem-solving (Whitecross, Smithson, 2023). It stands to reason: when individuals are deeply passionate about a topic, they are more likely to invest additional effort and creativity in exploring solutions. However, the question remains: how can we cultivate a sense of deep care and passion for addressing environmental challenges?
2. The Power of Nature Connection
Developing empathy for and connection with nature is facilitated through the field of nature connectedness. Nature connectedness encompasses an individual’s profound sense of relationship with the natural world, transcending mere time spent outdoors to encompass emotional attachment and beliefs about our integration within nature’s fabric. This connection forms a symbiotic relationship with curiosity, as curiosity about nature fosters a deeper bond with the environment. Our exploration of the natural world not only sparks curiosity but also enhances nature connectedness, leading to pro-environmental behaviours and bolstering individual well-being.
Moreover, paying attention to nature engages our bottom-up attention network, allowing us to simply notice and appreciate our surroundings without a specific aim. This mindful observation has been shown to restore attention and executive functioning, contributing to an overall sense of restoration and well-being.
Furthermore, when we approach nature with specific goals in mind, we tap into the field of biomimicry — an innovative discipline that draws inspiration from nature to solve human problems. Biomimicry has led to groundbreaking innovations, such as the invention of the first flying machine inspired by eagles and owls, paving the way for modern aviation technologies. Similarly, Velcro, mimicking the hooks on burrs that cling to animal fur, revolutionized fastening solutions. By designing materials, architecture, and systems based on biological principles, biomimicry facilitates a harmonious coexistence with nature, propelling us toward sustainable living practices and policies. Ultimately, biomimicry represents a paradigm shift — an acknowledgment of nature’s unparalleled ingenuity and an invitation to align our technological advancements with the wisdom of the natural world.
3. Thinking in Systems
Curiosity serves as a powerful tool for fostering a systems thinking approach, particularly in the context of addressing environmental challenges. As we confront complex, multifaceted issues with inherent uncertainties, such as plastic pollution stemming from seemingly beneficial inventions like plastic packaging, the need for holistic understanding becomes increasingly evident. Systems thinking, as articulated by Peter Senge, encourages us to perceive and comprehend systems as wholes rather than mere collections of parts.
By applying curiosity to sustainability challenges, we embark on a journey of inquiry that enables us to grasp the larger dynamics of interconnected systems. Through probing questions, we gain insights into the root causes of environmental problems, understanding the needs, challenges, and motivations of all stakeholders involved. This approach prompts us to recognise interdependencies and anticipate the ripple effects of our actions, thereby fostering a forward-thinking mindset that considers the impact on future generations.
In essence, curiosity serves as a catalyst for systems thinking, empowering us to navigate the intricate web of environmental challenges with clarity, insight, and purpose. Through a curious lens, we uncover the interconnectedness of systems, illuminate root causes, and chart a course toward a more sustainable future.
Applying these principles: Curiosity Hacks for Sustainability
Just as we train our muscles for strength and endurance, nurturing curiosity demands regular practice. Through applied curiosity practices we can increase our curiosity quotient, enhance our understanding of the world, and generate innovative sustainable solutions.
Here are some actionable steps for applying curiosity in service of the planet:
1. Nature-based curiosity walking: Step into the natural world and let curiosity be your guide. Taking a leisurely stroll through nature not only rejuvenates the mind but also sharpens our cognitive functions. Venture into the wilderness of your local area, allowing your senses to roam freely. Simply observe the sights, sounds, and sensations around you. Notice the intricate details of flora and fauna, the play of light and shadow, and the rhythm of life unfolding. Nature-based curiosity walking is a simple yet profound way to reconnect with the earth and stimulate creativity
2. Biomimicry Brainstorm: Harness the wisdom of nature to tackle complex challenges in the workplace. When confronted with a daunting problem, take inspiration from the natural world. Select an element of nature — a bird, a plant, or any living organism — and observe its behaviour and characteristics closely. What ingenious solutions has nature devised to overcome similar obstacles? By delving into the principles of biomimicry, we unlock a treasure trove of innovative ideas rooted in millions of years of evolution. Embrace the spirit of curiosity and let nature guide your brainstorming sessions toward novel solutions.
3. 7th Generation Questioning: Embrace the wisdom of the past and the responsibility for the future through the lens of the Seventh Generation Principle. This ancient philosophy, rooted in Haudenosaunee culture, reminds us that the decisions we make today should serve the well-being of generations yet unborn. When grappling with complex sustainability dilemmas, engage in 7th generation questioning. Reflect on the insights that elders from 150 years ago would offer on our current situation. Consider the far-reaching implications of our choices on the world seven generations hence. By adopting this long-term perspective, we cultivate a sense of stewardship and foresight, ensuring a legacy of sustainability for future generations.
In closing, let’s reflect on how curiosity can be our compass as we navigate the complex terrain of sustainability. Through its guiding light, we unveil innovative solutions, forge deeper connections with our planet, and inspire future generations to cherish and protect our shared home.
Contact Clare@globalcuriosityinstitute.com or Stefaan@globalcuriosityinstitute.com