Current Important Causes in Society and Environment

Climate change is a pressing issue, with rising global temperatures threatening ecosystems and communities worldwide. The current rate of carbon emissions is projected to increase by 47% by 2050, exacerbating the problem.

The Amazon rainforest, a critical carbon sink, is experiencing devastating deforestation rates, with an estimated 17% of the forest lost in the past 50 years.

Ocean pollution is also a significant concern, with plastic waste harming marine life and contaminating the food chain. The Great Pacific Garbage Patch, a massive collection of plastic debris, has grown to an estimated 1.6 million square kilometers.

The loss of biodiversity is a pressing issue, with species extinction rates accelerating due to habitat destruction, climate change, and pollution.

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Poverty and economic security are major concerns that affect many people worldwide. The World Bank will update the International Poverty Line from $1.90 to $2.15 in fall 2022, making anyone living on less than $2.15 in extreme poverty.

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62% of the global population lives on less than $10/day, and despite progress over the years, the end of poverty is still far off. The pandemic has made it even harder to reduce extreme poverty to 3% or less by 2030.

Gen Z is particularly concerned about economic security, with personal finances, jobs, debt, and housing insecurity being major sources of stress for them. Almost two-thirds (64%) of Gen Zers ages 12 to 26 said financial resources were a barrier to their future goals.

Many Gen Zers want to have stable, well-paying jobs, affordable housing, and avoid crippling college debt. More than two-thirds (70%) of Gen Zers think the U.S. government should provide a universal basic income for all individuals.

Two in five (41%) members of Gen Z say they have no money saved for an emergency, making it essential for them to focus on saving and earning money.

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Food and water security are two pressing issues that affect millions of people worldwide. Close to 193 million people experienced acute food insecurity in 2021, an increase of almost 40 million since 2020.

Economic shocks and weather-related disasters are major drivers of food insecurity. Domestic food price inflation in low-income countries also rose significantly. The lack of safe and clean water access has become a pressing social justice issue, affecting millions worldwide.

Communities without clean water often use contaminated sources, leading to waterborne illnesses such as diarrhea, cholera, and typhoid. Vulnerable populations, including children and older people, are particularly affected, perpetuating health inequalities and hindering overall well-being.

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Food insecurity is a pressing issue affecting millions worldwide. The number of people in crisis or worse has increased by almost 40 million since 2020, reaching 193 million in 2021.

Economic shocks, like rising global food prices, are a significant driver of this issue. Domestic food price inflation in low-income countries has also contributed to the problem.

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Weather-related disasters have affected 15.7 million people in 15 countries, making it the primary driver of acute food insecurity for them. This is a staggering 80% increase since 2016.

The consequences of food insecurity are severe, with millions struggling to access basic nutrition. It's essential to support charities and causes working to reduce world hunger and provide nutritional resources to those in need.

The lack of adequate water is a pressing social justice issue, affecting millions worldwide in 2023. Millions of people are without access to safe and clean water.

This issue encompasses the inequitable distribution, scarcity, and contamination of water sources. Communities are disproportionately impacted, with marginalized groups being affected the most.

The lack of water jeopardizes public health and sanitation, increasing disease prevalence and poor hygiene practices. Communities without clean water often use contaminated sources, leading to waterborne illnesses.

Vulnerable populations, including children and older people, are particularly affected, perpetuating health inequalities and hindering overall well-being.

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The healthcare industry has undergone significant shifts due to the COVID-19 pandemic, with new investments and innovations, especially from the technology and telehealth sectors. $44 billion was spent on health innovation in 2021.

Healthcare access remains a contentious issue in the US, with immense gaps in coverage and access, particularly for mental health issues. Despite the US spending more on healthcare than any other country, it has not translated into higher life expectancy and universal care.

Around 1 billion individuals invest at least 10% of their family income in healthcare and are at risk of falling into poverty, highlighting the pressing need for universal healthcare that assures everyone gets access to necessary treatment without financial burden.

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Refugees face significant challenges in accessing basic necessities like healthcare. Almost 6 million people have fled Ukraine since the war began, sparking the fastest-growing refugee crisis since WWII.

The refugee crisis is a global issue, with over 36,000 refugees from Nigeria, Mali, and Burkina Faso arriving in Niger between January and mid-April. Women and children, already marginalized groups, are at an increased risk of trafficking, violence, and death.

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In 2019, the refugee crisis dominated headlines, with a historic high of nearly 3.2 million encounters at borders, and many ending up in refugee camps worldwide. Refugees struggle to access education, healthcare, and economic opportunities.

The pandemic, climate change, terrorism, war, and other factors have led to a 20% increase in the number of refugees in need of resettlement, with nearly 2.4 million people requiring assistance. This is a stark reminder of the ongoing refugee crisis.

The healthcare industry has experienced major shifts due to the COVID-19 pandemic, with new investments and innovations, especially from the technology and telehealth sectors. In 2021, $44 billion was spent on health innovation.

There's been a dire need for investments in public-health infrastructure, as well as a need to expand healthcare access and insurance coverage, particularly in the United States. The pandemic has reaffirmed how broken healthcare systems can be.

Around 1 billion individuals globally invest at least 10% of their family income in healthcare and are at risk of falling into poverty. This highlights the pressing issue of universal healthcare, ensuring everyone gets access to necessary treatment without financial burden.

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The world will be seeing the effects of these innovations for years to come, but equity will be a major issue. The pandemic has also highlighted the inadequacies in the healthcare system, including the lack of awareness, inability to access tests and treatment, and insufficient mental health care.

Healthcare in 2021-2022 in the US remains a controversial subject, with immense gaps in terms of coverage and access, especially where mental health issues are concerned. The Affordable Care Act of 2010 has not translated into higher life expectancy and universal care.

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Human rights and social justice are at the forefront of many important causes right now. Almost 6 million people have fled Ukraine since the war began, sparking the fastest-growing refugee crisis since WWII.

Refugee crises are just one example of the many issues facing marginalized groups. According to the WHO, over 1 billion people have some form of disability, with half unable to afford healthcare. Discrimination against disabled people is a significant problem, with an increased risk of violence and poor health outcomes.

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The LGBTQ+ community also faces significant challenges, with members frequently experiencing discrimination, harassment, and violence. In the US, over 300 anti-LGBTQ+ bills were proposed in 2022, with at least a dozen states considering legislation that forbids schools from discussing or using a curriculum that covers sexual orientation and gender identity.

Key social justice issues include:

Human rights and social justice are closely intertwined concepts that aim to promote equality and fairness for all individuals. Over 1 billion people worldwide live with some form of disability, and half of them can't afford healthcare.

The lack of access to healthcare is just one of the many challenges people with disabilities face. They're also more likely to live in poverty, have poorer health outcomes, and have less access to work and education opportunities.

Social justice is an all-encompassing idea that seeks to achieve common goals, including equality, freedom from discrimination, and fair access to opportunities. It's based on the belief that all human beings have innate value and deserve equal rights, opportunities, and treatment.

The idea of social justice has been shaped by past struggles, such as the suffrage and civil rights movements. Despite progress, there's still a long way to go to achieve true social justice.

Here are some key principles of social justice:

Children are a vulnerable group, with 5.2 million under the age of five dying from preventable and treatable causes in 2019. Climate change poses a significant threat to kids, with 1 billion living in "extremely high-risk countries" and 920 kids struggling to access clean water.

LGBTQ+ rights are a crucial aspect of human rights and social justice. Members of the LGBTQ+ community face discrimination in many forms, including violence and harassment, even in more progressive countries like the United States.

According to Amnesty International, discrimination can target sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, and sex characteristics. This is a stark reminder that there is still a long way to go before we achieve true equality.

In the United States, over 300 anti-LGBTQ+ bills were proposed in 2022, with at least a dozen states considering legislation that forbids schools from discussing or using a curriculum that covers sexual orientation and gender identity. This is a concerning trend that needs to be addressed.

The principles of social justice emphasize the importance of equal rights, equal opportunity, and equal treatment for all individuals, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity. This includes access to education, healthcare, economic opportunities, and political participation.

Here are the core principles of social justice that are relevant to LGBTQ+ rights:

These principles are the foundation of our fight for social justice and human rights, and they must be upheld for all individuals, including those in the LGBTQ+ community.

Global gender equality has made significant progress over the years, but there's still a long way to go. According to the 2021 Global Gender Report, the end of the global gender gap is still 135 years away.

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The pandemic has set back positive trends, with women experiencing a 5% job loss compared to men's 3.9%. This translates to a staggering $800 million loss for women in 2020, a low estimate that doesn't account for the informal economy.

Women are more likely to live in poverty, suffer from gender-based violence, and be affected by climate change. The pay gap between men and women is also a significant issue, with women earning 16% less than men for every dollar earned by a man.

In the United States, women's rights are being threatened by restrictive laws and policies. The Supreme Court's decision to overrule Roe v. Wade, a landmark court case protecting abortion rights, would have a devastating impact on women's health and autonomy.

Here are some key statistics highlighting the state of gender equality:

Despite these challenges, there are efforts underway to promote gender equality. For example, President Biden's executive order formed the White House Gender Policy Council to boost comprehensive medical care, reduce health inequalities, and support reproductive and sexual health and rights.

It's essential to recognize that gender equality is not just a women's issue, but a human rights issue that affects everyone. By working together, we can create a more just and equitable society for all.

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Disinformation is a major issue in the digital age, spreading faster online than the truth. It can have serious consequences, such as swaying elections and contributing to vaccine hesitancy.

Deepfakes, an accessible AI technology, have the potential to sway political outcomes. This technology is becoming increasingly sophisticated.

Twelve anti-vax activists were responsible for almost ⅔ of all anti-vaccine content on social media platforms like Facebook and Twitter. This type of content can have a significant impact on public health.

Disinformation travels faster online than the truth, making it a global issue that needs to be addressed.

Gen Z is facing some tough social issues. Health care access is a core issue for them, with almost nine in 10 Gen Zers viewing access to health care as a human right.

Gen Zers are more likely to report emotional health problems than older age groups. In fact, a 2022 survey found that about half of young adults reported feeling anxious in the past year. They're also concerned about issues like homelessness, gun violence, and climate change.

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Gen Z is more accepting of and open to talking about mental health issues than older generations. However, they still face barriers to accessing mental health care, with cost being a top issue.

Here are some of the top social issues for Gen Z, based on our research:

These issues are all interconnected and affect different aspects of Gen Z's lives. By understanding these issues, we can start to work towards solutions that promote social justice and human rights for this generation.

Social and Environmental Issues are pressing concerns that affect us all. The COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted the importance of addressing these issues.

The effects of climate change are already being felt, especially by Gen Z, who are experiencing "eco-anxiety" and worrying about the climate crisis. Over 80% of Gen Zers in a recent international study reported feeling anxious, sad, or powerless about climate change.

Young people are taking action, with 90% of Gen Zers willing to pay more for sustainable products. They're also expecting companies to take a stand on environmental issues, with 70% of Gen Zers in the US believing the government should strengthen policies to reduce CO2 emissions.

Many Gen Zers are committed to leading by example, with 90% of Gen Zers purchasing sustainable products. This is a significant shift, as it shows that young people are willing to make changes in their daily lives to address environmental issues.

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Gen Zers are experiencing "eco-anxiety" due to the worsening effects of climate change, with over 80% of young people ages 16 to 25 in 10 countries reporting feelings of worry, sadness, anger, powerlessness, helplessness, and guilt.

Climate change is a pressing issue for Gen Z, with more than 70% of Gen Zers ages 18 to 24 in the United States believing it's an immediate and long-term threat to the planet's safety.

Young people expect institutions and businesses to take a stand on environmental issues, with one in five Gen Zers saying a brand's position on these issues affects whether they buy from them.

Nearly a third of Gen Zers would buy more sustainable goods if brands had clearer labels or better information on the product's climate impact.

Gen Zers are willing to lead by example and pay more for sustainable products, with 90% of Gen Zers purchasing such products.

This commitment to sustainability is not limited to Gen Z, with 85% of millennials, 84% of Gen Xers, and 78% of Baby Boomers also purchasing sustainable products.

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Speciesism is a form of discrimination that affects non-human animals, treating them as less than human. This is evident in the way farmed animals are handled, often with inhumane conditions.

Farmed animals are used as food, amusement, and laboratory test subjects, highlighting their devalued status. They are frequently regarded as "less than" people, and therefore as worthless commodities.

In reality, these animals are other creatures with rights and emotions who share our world with us.

Corruption is a major barrier to ending extreme poverty and boosting shared prosperity for the poorest populations. The World Bank Group highlights corruption as a significant obstacle in addressing poverty.

Corruption encompasses a wide range of actions, including bribery, election manipulation, fraud, and state capture. These actions hinder progress in various areas like poverty, climate change, healthcare, and gender equality.

Reform and better accountability systems are essential in tackling corruption. Open processes and transparent decision-making can also help prevent corrupt practices.

Corruption is a global problem, requiring global solutions. This means that international cooperation and collaboration are necessary to address the issue effectively.

Racial and social injustice is a pressing issue that affects many communities in the United States. The Black Lives Matter movement has brought attention to issues such as systemic racism, police brutality, and social inequity.

The Covid-19 pandemic has disproportionately affected racial and ethnic minorities, particularly Black, Latinx, and Native communities, who faced an increased risk of infection, major sickness, and death from the disease. These gaps are associated with long-standing imbalances in health outcomes and access to care, education, employment, and economic position.

Racial injustice in America is a problem as old as the country itself, with its impact found in education, business, media, and daily life. The ongoing protests and riots are a testament to the severity of the problems faced by minorities in America.

Gen Zers are more racially and ethnically diverse than previous generations, with nearly half of the group's members representing communities of color. They strongly value inclusion, cultural diversity, and racial and ethnic equality.

Here are some pressing racial and social issues that Americans still face in 2023:

Stereotyping is a pervasive social justice issue in 2023, causing prejudice and discrimination toward individuals and groups based on preconceived notions and generalizations.

Negative stereotypes can influence how we perceive and treat others, often leading to unfair treatment and unequal opportunities. For instance, the stereotype that all immigrants are criminals has been used to justify discriminatory policies, such as the Muslim Ban in the United States.

The stereotype that women are less competent than men in math and science perpetuates gender inequality, leading to the underrepresentation of women in these fields. Women may face discrimination and barriers in pursuing careers in math and science due to this stereotype.

Stereotypes can be damaging and hurtful, perpetuating harmful prejudices and violating human rights. By recognizing and challenging these stereotypes, we can work towards creating a more inclusive and equitable society.

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Racial equity is a key social issue that affects many communities in the United States. Gen Zers are more racially and ethnically diverse than previous generations, with nearly half of the group's members representing communities of color.

Gen Z strongly values inclusion, cultural diversity, and racial and ethnic equality. They are also acutely aware of the nation's steep racial divides. In fact, a recent poll found that three in five Gen Zers believe racial justice should be a top priority for the federal government.

Systemic racism is a public health crisis that affects people of color, making it harder for them to access healthcare. A majority of Gen Zers agree that racial residential segregation and discrimination in housing should be a priority for the federal government.

Trust in the US criminal justice system is low among Gen Zers, particularly among those who have personally experienced discrimination. In fact, three in five Gen Zers have little to no confidence in the system's ability to treat individuals equally.

Here are some key statistics on racial equity from a recent poll:

Gen Zers are passionate about racial equity, but they also value fairness and equality in all facets of life. They are also passionate about LGBTQ+ rights, with over one in five US Gen Z adults identifying as LGBTQ+.

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Racial and social injustice is a pressing issue that affects many communities in the United States. Gun violence disproportionately affects people of color, with Black kids and teens being about five times as likely as their white peers to die from gun violence in 2021.

The alarming rates of gun violence among Black Gen Zers are a stark reminder of the systemic inequalities that exist. In 2021, more than half (51%) of all Black Gen Zers ages 15 to 19 who died were killed by firearms.

Gun violence is not just a matter of individual actions, but also a symptom of broader social and economic issues. The United States is one of the leaders in gun ownership, with over 120 guns for every 100 citizens.

The impact of gun violence on communities of color is further exacerbated by poverty and low-income households. According to the article, people living in poverty vary by generation, with some generations experiencing higher rates of poverty than others.

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Here is a breakdown of the population size by generation, race, and ethnicity:

These statistics highlight the need for a comprehensive approach to addressing racial and social injustice. By understanding the complexities of these issues, we can work towards creating a more equitable society for all.

Freedom and democracy are under threat worldwide. According to Freedom House, 60 countries deteriorated in democracy in 2022, while only 25 improved.

The decline of press freedom is a significant contributor to this erosion. The global average of press freedom dropped from .65 in the early 2000s to .49 in 2021, with countries like China, India, Russia, Brazil, and Turkey seeing significant declines.

Journalists and news organizations face many threats, including violence, imprisonment, lack of funding, and online attacks and harassment.

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Democracy is eroding worldwide. According to Freedom House, 60 countries saw declines in democracy in 2022, while only 25 countries improved.

The trend is alarming, with global freedom declining for 16 years. This means that only 20% of the global population lives in free countries.

Southeast Asia is particularly concerning, with the junta still ruling in Myanmar. The region may do worse in 2023, as reported by Freedom House.

Authoritarian countries like China and Russia are gaining power, while countries with established democracies are losing their freedoms. This shift in the international system is a major concern.

A bold, sustained response is needed to establish support for democracy and counter authoritarianism. This requires the engagement and action of governments and citizens alike.

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Freedom of the press is a crucial aspect of a functioning democracy. The global average of press freedom has dropped significantly, from .65 in the early 2000s and 2011 to .49 in 2021.

About 85% of people live in a country where press freedom has gone down in the past 5 years. This decline is alarming, as a free press is essential to a functioning democracy.

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Major countries like China, India, Russia, Brazil, and Turkey have seen significant declines in press freedom. Journalists and news organizations face threats like violence, imprisonment, lack of funding, and coordinated online attacks and harassment.

A free press is the backbone of a healthy democracy, and its erosion can have far-reaching consequences. Without press freedom, all human rights are at risk.

Freedom of speech has been under intense scrutiny in the United States in 2024, with a rise in hate speech and repression of self-ideology.

Social media apps have been banned in many states, affecting millions of users.

Peaceful protestors have faced attacks on the basis of public safety, making it difficult for people to express themselves without fear of retribution.

The challenge of balancing freedom of speech with the need to protect individuals and communities from harm remains an ongoing issue in American society.

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Education and Empowerment is a vital cause that can have a lasting impact on individuals and communities. Women's Empowerment efforts, for example, can take many forms, including providing economic resources to impoverished women and teaching them valuable skills like coding.

Many organizations focus on improving access to education, which is crucial for kids around the world. In developed nations, education is often taken for granted, but for millions of children elsewhere, it's a privilege they can't afford.

Philanthropists like Lola Karimova-Tillyaeva on Youtube show us the transformative power of education, highlighting the importance of access to learning and school.

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Education is a fundamental right that many of us take for granted, but for millions of children worldwide, it's a luxury they can't afford.

In developed nations, kids can attend school and even pursue higher education if they choose to, but this is not the reality for many others.

Kids in other parts of the world often face significant barriers to accessing education, which can have a lasting impact on their lives.

Philanthropists like Lola Karimova-Tillyaeva on YouTube are working to change this by highlighting the importance of education and its potential to empower children.

All kids deserve to be able to learn and go to school.

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Women's empowerment is a crucial aspect of creating a more equitable world. Internationally, women are often marginalized and victimized, lacking the social and political power of their male counterparts.

Efforts to empower women can take many forms, such as providing economic resources to impoverished women or teaching them valuable skills like coding. Some organizations focus on economic empowerment, while others focus on skill-building.

Women's empowerment is not just about individual success, but also about creating a ripple effect that benefits communities as a whole. In some countries, women's empowerment efforts have led to significant improvements in their social and economic status.

Providing women with economic resources can help them break the cycle of poverty and become self-sufficient. This can be achieved through initiatives such as microfinance programs or vocational training.

Women's empowerment is not a one-size-fits-all solution, but rather a multifaceted approach that requires a deep understanding of the local context. By working together, we can create a more just and equitable world for women and girls.

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Our research has identified several career paths that can make a significant impact in tackling problems. These careers are a great starting point for those looking to make a difference.

One of the highest-impact career paths is a teacher. Teachers have the power to shape young minds and inspire future generations.

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Gen Z, born between 1997 and 2012, is the most diverse generation in history, with 44% of them identifying as non-white.

Growing up with the internet, Gen Z is digitally native and expects instant access to information.

Research shows that Gen Z is more interested in social and environmental issues than previous generations.

They are also more likely to prioritize financial stability and independence.

Millennials, born between 1981 and 1996, are known for their entrepreneurial spirit, with 36% of them starting their own businesses.

Baby Boomers, born between 1946 and 1964, are more likely to have a traditional view of education, valuing face-to-face interaction and hands-on learning.

Gen X, born between 1965 and 1980, is often referred to as the "middle child" generation, caught between the traditional values of the Baby Boomers and the tech-savviness of the Millennials.

The Silent Generation, born between 1928 and 1945, values discipline and hard work, with 71% of them believing that a college degree is essential for success.

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Social and Environmental Issues are a huge concern for many of us, especially for Gen Z. Over 80% of Gen Zers around the world are worried about the climate crisis, with many reporting feelings of sadness, anxiety, anger, powerlessness, helplessness, and guilt.

The effects of climate change are impacting the lives of young people, causing eco-anxiety. A recent international study found that over 70% of Gen Zers in the US believe climate change is an immediate and long-term threat to the planet's safety.

Gen Zers are not just worried, they're also taking action. Many are committed to leading by example, willing to pay more for sustainable products and expecting companies to take a stand on environmental issues.

In fact, one in five Gen Zers said that a brand's position on issues would affect whether or not they buy from them. This shows that young people are looking for companies to take responsibility for their impact on the environment.

It's not just about buying products, it's also about expecting institutions and businesses to take action. Nearly a third of Gen Zers said they would buy more sustainable goods if brands had clearer labels or better information on the product's climate impact.

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