When all the developed countries across the globe are suffering from economic downturn, instead of focusing on how to make consumers buy more unwanted junk and make the unhappier and less fulfilled, I believe all governments should focus more on their citizen's mental welfare, just like Bhutan. As we have seen, consumerism drives the economy but it doesn't necessarily bring us happiness, so why on earth are countries like China, India and Russia rushing to follow the footsteps of these developed nations? I really have no idea. Some of my friends have recently moved to Shanghai and were telling me about how exciting it is... hmm... it doesn't interest me at all, I have been to Shanghai once about 8 years ago and I really disliked it. I found the place crowded, chaotic, rude, materialistic and pretentious. While many are rushing towards these 'so-called' goldmines, I am happy to stay put to witness considerable changes taking place in the backyard of the 'suffering' developed countries.
While the developing nations are getting rid of their bicycles for brand new Mercedes, we are trading in our SUVs for small electronic cars and second-hand bicycles... While they are embracing concepts of mega supermarkets and malls, we are more intersted in local produce and farmers markets. This, in fact is the best time for new ideas, opportunities and changes. Unlike most others, I am so glad that the so-called 'good days' and hedonistic lifestyles are over, finally, we have reached the point when we are forced to review and change our priorities and focus on issues like families, personal values and mental well-being.
As we have all been informed, we are running out of many natural resources on this planet, so the word 'sustainability' is often used across all media in the past few years. I have to admit that I was one of those who enjoyed a rather hedonistic lifestyle for years, and I thought I had done my fair share for the planet by recycling! In the past year or so, I have made some conscious effort to change my habits and lifestyle. I am also becoming more aware and interested in activities organized by many non-profit organizations and local community groups. I am not even sure what changed, but I know that I/we cannot go on living being so ignorant and selfish. Even if scientists have exaggerated claims about the climate change, it is still our duties to review and adjust our old behaviour and habits.
Last week, I signed up for a Twilight garden tour in the heart of Kings Cross organized by Food Junctions and Global Generation. The idea is simple but brilliant: growing plants and vegetables in building sites, waste lands and roof tops, as well as getting kids and teenagers involved in creating a better and more sustainable environment for the future. I had no idea about the skip garden right across from St Pancras station, it's so encouraging to see organizations like Global Generation working so hard to promote sustainability, community spirit and changing the urban landscape of London. Apart from the skip garden, we also visited a rooftop allotment on top of a warehouse converted building by the canal nearby. Aside from the allotments, there are also rain water collection and compost units on site.
Hidden skip garden opp. St. Pancras station
I will never look at skip the same way from now on!
Roof top allotment in Kings Cross
Earlier in the day, I also visited Calthorpe Project in Kings Cross, another project that has been running for 25 years. They have a large garden with playground and a newly-built clay oven, all available for local families and youths. I went there to build my own window garden for free, so hopefully, I will be eating carrots from my own rooftop garden very soon!
Calthorpe Project in Kings Cross
My garden window box planted at Calthorpe Project
While cities like Shanghai, Beijing, Mumbai and Moscow are rushing to tear down the old and building endless new commercial blocks to compete with the West, they should really spend more time, money and effort on urban planning. Places like Dubai and Las Vegas are Disneylands for adults, they are so not COOL! Personally, I think Singapore has done a great job in terms of urban planning, it is one of the greenest metropolitan cities I have ever visited. Unfortunately, for large developed cities like London and New York, it is much harder to change the existing urban landscape. However, creative ideas and solutions have sprung up and changes are being made gradually. A good example is New York's Highline in Chelsea and Meatpacking district. I love the concept and being a former Chelsea resident, I am amazed to see how much the area has changed since I moved away. When most people have their eyes on cities in the new developing countries, major cities like London, New York and Tokyo are evolving gradually and quietly. It will be interesting to be how everything will change in 10 years' time... How will we compare to cities like Shanghai and Mumbai? Will we be able to evolve and regenerate into cities that are greener and more sustainable? Only time will tell.
