As humans, we are constantly striving for progress and advancement. We seek to improve our lives and make them more comfortable, more convenient, and more mobile. However, as we embrace modernity and the eurocentric lifestyle that comes with it, we must also consider the consequences of our actions.

For centuries, indigenous communities around the world have lived in harmony with nature, utilizing sustainable practices to ensure their survival. They understood the importance of conservation and preservation, recognizing that the earth’s resources were finite and must be used responsibly. In contrast, the eurocentric lifestyle of modernity prioritizes convenience, mobility, and easy living above all else, often at the expense of the environment.

Photos: Son Tra, Central Vietnam, Feb 2021.

The consequences of unsustainable development are becoming increasingly clear, as we witness the devastating effects of climate change and environmental degradation. Our reliance on fossil fuels, consumerism, and disposable products have all contributed to this crisis, and the situation will only worsen if we continue down this path.

Ironically, the very lifestyle that we seek to reject may lead us to a much worse fate. Our obsession with convenience and mobility has led to the production and consumption of vast amounts of single-use plastics, resulting in massive pollution of our oceans and waterways. Our reliance on fossil fuels has contributed to climate change, leading to extreme weather conditions, food scarcity, and displacement of communities.

It is time to rethink our concept of modernity and embrace a more sustainable lifestyle. This requires a shift in mindset, a willingness to prioritize the health of the planet over convenience and short-term gain. We must learn from the practices of indigenous communities, recognizing the importance of conservation and preservation, and utilizing sustainable practices to ensure our survival.

We must also hold governments and corporations accountable for their actions, demanding that they take steps to reduce their carbon footprint and prioritize sustainability. Individual actions are important, but systemic change is necessary to create a sustainable future for all.

In conclusion, the eurocentric lifestyle of modernity has brought many benefits, but we must also recognize its unsustainable nature. It is time to reflect on our actions and embrace a more sustainable lifestyle, learning from the practices of indigenous communities and prioritizing the health of the planet over convenience and short-term gain. Only then can we hope to create a sustainable future for ourselves and future generations.