WHEN we examine our environment and social systems, on the surface level, we might consider them to be two separate entities — independent from each other. This, however, is not the case, as many experts believe in a model known as the socio-ecological system, which describes the interdependence between us humans (inclusive of our culture, history and other social systems) and the environment (our ecosystems, natural resources, wildlife, etc.).

How often do we consider how our daily lives and the systems we construct socially as humans affect the environment around us? Are we oblivious to the fact that we alone live on this planet? Or is it that we prescribe ourselves to be the most intelligent species, so we owe no one (or no environmental correlations) an explanation for our actions?

During the course of this week, I was asked to describe an object that is meaningful to me and how it is directly associated with socio-ecological systems (SES). It was quite an interesting exercise — one that allowed me to ponder how generational social and cultural decisions can have lasting impacts on the environments in which we live. As such, I decided to write this column with the hope of inspiring you to also reflect on your actions, while exploring more sustainable solutions for your current self and the generations to come after you.

To my surprise, when asked to reflect on an object that is meaningful to me and to show the theme of the socio-ecological systems (SES), I quickly placed my hand on my neck, grappling with a gold necklace that was given to me by my late grandmother as a parting gift prior to her death. This chain holds sentimental significance, one that cannot be replaced by any dollar bills.

As we know, in Guyanese culture, the gifting of gold is not a foreign concept. It is a tradition often passed down through generations, as a gift of prosperity and a family heirloom. We often joke that you can recognise a Guyanese by their accent and, secondly, by their love of gold. It is deeply embedded into our culture, but have we ever stopped to consider how this love for gold, or the traditional practices of gifting it, affects the environment around us?

I reflected on gold practices in Guyana and began researching the impacts of gold mining, particularly illegal gold mining, which can have detrimental effects on indigenous communities across the country. Gold mining often involves mercury, and while there are discussions about prohibiting its use, there is no concrete enforcement of this prohibition. When mercury enters waterways, the water for indigenous families becomes contaminated. As such, I asked myself: how many indigenous families, especially children, have drunk contaminated water simply for me to have this necklace?

I also reflected on gold mining and its effects on our forests. Guyana is richly blessed with the Amazon rainforest, where many of the world’s protected species of wildlife and plants thrive. Unfortunately, gold mining is often associated with deforestation. Yet again I asked: how many trees had to be cut down for me to wear my gold necklace?

This was a critical examination I did on just one simple piece of jewellery I own. I have not yet begun the process of critically examining other items, objects, and possessions I have — especially those that are meaningful and have direct social and cultural connections. I urge you all to consider doing this exercise as well. Pick an object that you believe is meaningful to you and question its social and environmental impacts. Are those environmental impacts detrimental? Are you willing to continue purchasing or upholding such traditions, even if you are now aware of their environmental consequences?

We often think of environmental impacts as a consequence of a global phenomenon, rather than measuring our individual behaviour. Every individualistic choice eventually adds up to our overall impact on the environment.

While I love my grandmother and her taste in jewellery, I deeply appreciate the necklace I was given. I also challenge myself to think ahead to the future — even to my future children and their children. I questioned whether this tradition of gold-gifting is sustainable. How many more forests have to be degraded, and how many more waterways will have to be contaminated, in order for us to continue this tradition?

Perhaps we can continue the tradition, but in the process, we must find more sustainable ways of doing so — such as replacing gold with a more sustainable metal, like titanium. While socio-ecological systems are complex, they are also described as adaptable. As such, we can adapt our methods accordingly to adjust to the changing environment.

I want us all to remember that every decision made today will have a lasting impact on our future. Let us be mindful of our way forward. Similar to the realisations I made with my necklace, I am hopeful that we start to consider these environmental challenges within our social systems.