Financial literacy and environmental stewardship are both concepts that are in search of ways to strike a balance between sustainability and enjoyment of life. The environment provides resources and raw materials for people to make money. However, they must invest money if they wish to protect the environment and keep resources renewable for further production.

How to

For doing so, SUSTAINABILITY is key. It requires that people on Earth incorporate a long-term vision to remain economically viable and meet the long-term objectives of prosperity for all future generations. We should find/make a variety of approaches and innovative renewable resources that meet human needs without harming our land, water, and energy sources. Integrate environmental planning into our financial plans, so that we can eventually reduce cost and increase the benefit for the entire life of an economic development project.

As a consumer, you have the power to shape the future and define the link between money and the environment. You can refuse to spend any of your money in unfriendly practices and invest your money in environmentally sound projects. You can demand more political, social, and cultural abidance and compliance with regulations. You can invest and encourage alternative energy sources, science-based solutions, ecological monitoring, and adaptive management to resources. You, as a consumer and as an investor, hold power in any and all financial transactions you conduct in your daily life. You can help the balance of maintaining a happy relationship between money and the environment.

No dispute adopting environmentally friendly practices can be expensive in its initial investment. Many people question the high cost of installing solar panels, windmills, or geothermal equipment. In addition, it could take a few years to justify the return on investment. So, does it really make financial sense to invest in such technologies? This has been a debate for the ages. It is only relevant to those who believe that what we do today is forever inherited by our future generations.

Practice

Think of paying it forward and discuss the delicate and intricate relationship between money and environmental stewardship with a friend or a family member.

Congratulations! You can move on to Chapter 4. What is the impact of your financial decisions on the environment?

To review the full module on Environmental Stewardship, click here.