Name

Belinda Bean

Location

Sydney, Australia

What was your ‘eureka’ moment for getting into sustainability?

I had no idea what I wanted to do when I left school. I studied Marketing at University - I figured that no matter what I ended up doing, I'd need to be able to sell it. I was taught that another word for people is "consumers". I learned that you keep them consuming with strategies like planned and perceived obsolescence. I was the only one to question the ethics and sustainability of these concepts. I had always known there were environmental problems in the world, but I always thought "they" would fix it. It was at this point in my life, I started to think about who "they" were - and did "they" need help? I undertook a self-appointed minor in sustainable consumption, focusing my assignments and research in this space. That lead me to a Masters in Sustainable Development and my whole adult life being dedicated to sustainability.

What have you been doing on sustainability since?

As Macquarie University's Sustainability Officer, I'm tasked with creating a cultural shift towards sustainable behaviours. I run a small permaculture garden on campus to showcase regenerative, small-space urban growing techniques. In my personal life, I make a game out of lightening my footprint and creating a positive impact. I make 90% of my meals from scratch using local, organic and packaging-free ingredients. I live in a toxic chemical-free tiny home with minimal possessions. I travel locally and support local growers, producers, sellers and artists. I look after my health, meditate, give out free hugs and love my life - very important aspects to living sustainably.

What’s your vision for reaching a sustainable future?

I see myself living on a sustainable farm, growing an abundance of natural produce and promoting holistic health. I see cities embracing urban permaculture, with green roofs, green walls and community gardens. I feel a sense of community returning and an awakening to our own potential. I see organisations solving problems and creating wins for environment, economy and society. The biggest obstacle we have to overcome is fear - our own self doubt and uncertainty. We can achieve anything we put our minds to. And it's going to be awesome!

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