A new United Nations University report presents a transformative framework for addressing global crises like climate change and pollution, identifying five essential systemic changes needed for a sustainable future.
Amid escalating crises such as climate change, biodiversity loss and pollution, a new United Nations report sets forth a bold strategy to foster global change. The 2025 edition of the “Interconnected Disaster Risks” report, titled “Turning Over a New Leaf,” by the United Nations University’s Institute for Environment and Human Security (UNU-EHS), shifts focus from problem diagnosis to actionable solutions.
“For years, scientists have warned us about the damage we’re doing to our planet, and how to stop it. But we aren’t taking meaningful actions,” Shen Xiaomeng, director of UNU-EHS, said in a news release. We know climate change is worsening, yet fossil fuel consumption keeps hitting record highs. We already have a waste crisis, yet household waste is projected to double by 2050. Time and again, we see the danger ahead, yet we keep moving towards it. In many cases, we see the abyss, we know how to turn around, and yet we confidently keep walking towards it. Why?”
The report introduces the “Theory of Deep Change” (ToDC), which delves into the root causes of today’s global problems. Unlike superficial fixes, the ToDC examines societal structures and assumptions sustaining these challenges.
The Theory of Deep Change
The theoretical framework compares societal problems to a tree, where visible outcomes are the fruits, but the real issues lie at the roots. According to the report, lasting change necessitates addressing these foundational roots.
“Our report shows that many of the actions we take, as well-intentioned as they are, won’t work as long as there is a whole system working against us,” added lead author Caitlyn Eberle. “We need to go deeper, envision the world that we want to live in, and change the structures to match that vision.”
Five Urgent Systemic Changes
The report highlights that deep changes are urgently needed in these five key areas:
- Rethink Waste: Promoting a circular economy that prioritizes durability, repair and reuse to combat the “take-make-waste” model.
- Realign With Nature: Moving from seeing humanity as separate from nature to a coexistence model. The report highlights the successful restoration of the Kissimmee River in Florida as an inspiring example.
- Reconsider Responsibility: Emphasizing collective global accountability over individualistic approaches.
- Reimagine the Future: Encouraging long-term thinking and planning for the well-being of future generations.
- Redefine Value: Shifting from economic-centric values to prioritizing planetary health and well-being.
Levers for Change
The report outlines two types of levers essential for achieving deep change:
- Inner Levers: Shifting paradigms and mindsets to redefine the boundaries of what is possible.
- Outer Levers: Translating these new goals into practical structures like policy changes and educational reforms.
Overcoming Barriers to Change
The report acknowledges challenges such as systemic inertia and conflicts of interest, termed the “Delta of Doom.
Zita Sebesvari, another lead author, emphasizes that change requires both innovative thinking and global cooperation.
“This report is not just about avoiding disaster – it’s about breaking free from the mindset of merely mitigating harm. By addressing the root causes, we can shape a world where future generations do not just survive but thrive,” added Sebesvari.
Proven Success Stories
The report also highlights several successful initiatives globally, such as the zero-waste strategies in Kamikatsu, Japan, conservation efforts for UK’s peatlands and the adoption of Bhutan’s Gross National Happiness Index. These examples demonstrate that positive change is both possible and scalable.
Conclusion
The UN University’s 2025 “Interconnected Disaster Risks” report presents a comprehensive blueprint for sustainable transformation, emphasizing that true change starts at the roots. By rethinking waste, realigning with nature, reconsidering responsibility, reimagining the future and redefining value, humanity can pave the way for a sustainable and equitable world.
Source: United Nations University