Transformative Work Shaping a Better World
The concept of an intertidal moment that marine biologists use to describe the intertidal zone of a beach as a place of constant change, exposed to air at low tide and submerged in water at high tide, is a profound metaphor for the current state of human society. It suggests a period of transition, much like the fluctuating tides that define the intertidal zone—a space that is neither fully aquatic nor entirely terrestrial, but one that is characterized by constant change and adaptation. This metaphorical intertidal zone that humanity finds itself in at this moment is marked by a sense of continuity with the past, yet there's an undeniable shift towards something new, something yet to be fully understood or defined, but we can all feel it.
This moment in history is unique because, for perhaps the first time, there is a collective awareness of being in such a transitional phase. Unlike the marine intertidal zone, which is governed by the predictable rhythms of the tides, this societal intertidal moment feels more erratic, less predictable. It's as if humanity is collectively holding its breath, aware of the need for change but uncertain of the direction that change should take.
The term 'liminal space' further enriches this discussion, emphasizing the threshold between what was and what could be. These are spaces of transformation, where the old ways are left behind, and new possibilities begin to take shape. In such spaces, individuals and societies alike can feel disoriented, as the familiar markers that guided previous generations seem less relevant, less capable of providing direction in a rapidly evolving world.
Yet, it is precisely within these liminal spaces that creativity and innovation can flourish. When the old rules no longer apply, and the new ones have yet to be written, there is an opportunity to reimagine and reinvent. The opportunity presented to us to develop curiosity about embracing the creative potential of this moment is a call to action, urging us to engage with the uncertainty and use it as a catalyst for growth and development.
To harness the creative potential of this intertidal moment, it is essential to remain open to new ideas, to be willing to question long-held assumptions, and to be brave enough to experiment with new forms of thinking and being. It requires a collective effort to navigate the complexities of this transition, to find common ground amidst the diversity of experiences and perspectives that define our global society.
In embracing this intertidal moment, we must also acknowledge the challenges it presents. The sense of discombobulation that many feel is not just a symptom of change but a sign of the significant work that lies ahead. It is a reminder that while change is inevitable, progress is not—it must be actively pursued, shaped by the choices we make and the values we uphold.
As we stand at this crossroads, the decisions we make now will determine the trajectory of our shared future. It is a time for bold thinking and courageous action, for envisioning a world that is not only different from the past but better—more equitable, more sustainable, more attuned to the needs and aspirations of all its inhabitants. In this intertidal moment, we have the chance to redefine what it means to be human and to craft a legacy that future generations will look back on as a turning point towards a more hopeful, more vibrant world.
In the midst of uncertainty, it's indeed a human instinct to search for stability, to find solace in the familiar. However, as the world evolves at an unprecedented pace, the concept of stability transforms with it. It becomes less about maintaining a static state and more about the agility to navigate change. The quest for stability, then, is a journey of continuous adaptation, where resilience is forged not in the absence of change but through the embrace of it. It's in this dynamic equilibrium that we find true safety—not in the stillness, but in the ability to move with grace through the ever-changing landscape of life. This perspective shift from seeking permanence to cultivating adaptability is what equips us to thrive in a world where the only certainty is change itself.
Ian Bremmer, political scientist and the founder and president of Eurasia Group a political risk research and consulting firm, states, “when you look at any long form of humanity over thousands and thousands or hundreds of thousands of years, if you go back to the beginning, it’s flat. It’s flat in terms of population, it’s flat in terms of technology, in terms of communication, it’s flat. And then for the last blink of an eye, it explodes. You’ve never had a period on our planet like the last 50 years, really half a century of unprecedented human progress. Education levels increased. Infant mortality reduces. Life expectancy grew exponentially all over the world. Now, there were costs to that globalization. We are now at the beginning of a new globalization in ways that even a year ago, never mind 20, seemed inconceivable, and of course, I’m talking about the AI revolution. When we start to consider artificial intelligence, that’s the first thing in human history that has the potential to either change us as human beings into a future form or extinguish us. There has never been such a thing.”
Dr. Nathan Brown is a clinical psychologist having spent his professional life following the effects the modern world is having on us humans through traditional psychology as well as neurofeedback systems that are becoming increasingly powerful at monitoring our brains’ response to the pressures of this moment we find ourselves in. Dr. Brown observes a significant shift in the challenges faced by modern humans compared to our ancestors. The evolution of our stress response system, which was once a vital survival mechanism against predators, is now often triggered by persistent, non-physical threats. This mismatch between our biological design and contemporary stressors can lead to chronic stress, impacting our health and social interactions. As we navigate a world vastly different from the one our bodies were designed for, understanding and adapting our responses to these modern pressures is crucial. Techniques like neurofeedback offer promising avenues for monitoring and potentially recalibrating our brain's reactions, aiming to align our physiological responses with the realities of today's world. Dr. Brown's work underscores the importance of evolving our approach to psychological well-being in an ever-changing environment.
A lot of us feel that anxiety right now, this kind of low-level sense of fear and uncertainty about where we are headed. And it can leave us feeling powerless over what comes next. But what do we do when some of these threats are not imagined, but rather painfully real?
The Mealy Mountains in Labrador, Canada stand as a testament to the power of preservation and the importance of indigenous stewardship. This vast expanse of wilderness, protected through the collaboration between the Innu Nation and Canada's National Parks, is not only a sanctuary for an astonishing variety of wildlife but also a crucial natural resource for climate regulation. It is the largest intact forest left on planet Earth. It’s home to over 5 billion birds. It contains one-quarter of the planet’s wetlands, one-fifth of the world’s freshwater. It actually absorbs twice as much carbon as a tropical forest per hectare. So, in terms of climate regulation, this is the most important terrestrial landscape on planet Earth.
The efforts of Valérie Courtois and her team known as The Guardians, highlight a growing recognition of the vital role that indigenous knowledge and leadership play in environmental conservation. Their work underscores a broader movement towards embracing traditional practices and perspectives in the fight to protect our planet's biodiversity. This partnership in Labrador serves as a beacon of hope, demonstrating that through unity and respect for indigenous wisdom, significant strides can be made in safeguarding the natural world for future generations. As Valérie poignantly notes, 80% of the world’s remaining biodiversity is on lands that are loved by Indigenous peoples. And that is not an accident. They are painfully aware that they are responsible for those landscapes.
The Guardian’s initiative represents a profound commitment to environmental stewardship and cultural preservation. This First Nations-led movement embodies a holistic approach to conservation, one that intertwines the protection of biodiversity with the perpetuation of indigenous wisdom and practices. By prioritizing sustainable use over exploitation, the Guardians not only safeguard natural habitats but also fortify a legacy of respect and reciprocity with the earth. Their philosophy offers a stark contrast to the tendencies to extract resources from the environment practiced by some modern industries, advocating for a balance that ensures the continuity of both natural resources and cultural heritage. As this ethos spreads, it fosters a greater collective consciousness towards the environment, potentially leading to a more harmonious coexistence with our planet.
The world needs more of us who simply refuse to give up, building on ancient wisdom to look beyond our modern moment to a future worth fighting for. These are the stories we need right now. It’s so easy to see all that is wrong with the world and even easier to lose hope altogether. But the creativity comes in finding new ways to do something about it.
Boyan Slat's journey from a disheartening scuba dive along garbage strewn beaches while on vacation in Greece, more plastic bags than fish, to spearheading The Ocean Cleanup is a testament to the power of asking, "Why not?" and pursuing the answer relentlessly. At the tender age of 16, his question led to the creation of a non-profit organization dedicated to developing advanced systems to rid the world's oceans of plastic. The Ocean Cleanup's mission is ambitious: to remove 90% of floating ocean plastic by 2040. This initiative not only targets the Great Pacific Garbage Patch, which is the largest accumulation of oceanic trash, but also aims to intercept plastic waste from rivers, a significant source of ocean pollution.
The impact of such pollution is far-reaching, affecting marine life and human health. Over 700 species suffer directly from plastic waste, with hundreds at risk of extinction. For humans, the danger lies in microplastics, which, after decomposing, enter the food chain carrying toxic chemicals, potentially affecting the 3 billion people relying on fish as a primary protein source. Slat's innovative approach, utilizing ocean currents to gather plastic, exemplifies a proactive stance against a global issue, turning the tide towards cleaner oceans and a healthier planet.
The initiative led by Boyan Slat and his team represents a remarkable journey of perseverance and innovation in the face of environmental challenges. Their system, a U-shaped barrier designed to corral floating plastic waste, exemplifies the potential of human ingenuity to address the pollution of our oceans. The process of collecting, sorting, and recycling the plastic into pellets for new products is not only a testament to sustainable practices but also a financially viable model that supports their mission. This closed-loop system, which turns waste into valuable products like designer sunglasses, showcases a scalable solution to a global problem.
With the foresight to tackle the expected rise in plastic production, their efforts to reduce the influx of plastics into our oceans are crucial. It's a compelling example of how technology and determination can lead to impactful environmental solutions. Their work serves as an inspiration, proving that with dedication and innovative thinking, it is possible to make significant strides in preserving our planet for future generations. The initiative to install interceptors in some of the world's most polluting rivers is a significant step towards addressing the plastic pollution crisis. These interceptors are designed to capture plastic waste before it can reach the ocean, potentially preventing a substantial portion of the world's plastic emissions from contributing to marine pollution. Their approach combines high-tech and low-tech solutions, ranging from autonomous solar-powered systems to simple barriers, to adapt to the unique characteristics of each river.
It echoes Boyan Slat's sentiment that the label of 'impossible' should be questioned, as history has shown that today's impossibilities may become tomorrow's realities. Entrepreneurs and innovators are often advised to heed constructive criticism, but as Slat suggests, the notion that a goal is unattainable should not deter those committed to creating positive change. Clearly, the progress made by The Ocean Cleanup illustrates that with persistence and ingenuity, significant environmental improvements are achievable. And what about all those people who say what they are doing is impossible? Boyan says, “I think when somebody says something is impossible, I think the sheer absoluteness of that statement should make you suspicious of it. If you look at history, everything that we now take for granted used to be impossible at some point in time. So, if you’re an entrepreneur, if you’re trying to make something, if you’re trying to create something, yes, I think it’s very important to listen and to listen to people’s advice. But if there is one bit of advice that you should really ignore, it’s people who say that something can’t be done.”
The challenges facing Boyan and us all are daunting. Liminal times are full of danger, but it’s also where all the creative juice is. For those of us who want to push the envelope on who we are and to find what’s possible on this planet looking forward, this is our moment!
We’ve been in moments like this before; historical transitions, such as the Industrial Revolution, have indeed reshaped society's fabric, altering our livelihoods, diets, and mobility. Today, we stand at a similar crossroads, where emerging challenges beckon us to innovate and adapt. This period of transformation holds the promise of redefining our world, offering a canvas for collective reimagination. As we navigate this change, envisioning the future becomes a collaborative endeavor, inviting diverse perspectives to craft a resilient and inclusive tomorrow.
Ecovative, a company based in Albany, New York, is at the forefront of a sustainable revolution, harnessing the unique properties of mycelium, the root structure of mushrooms. This material, which resembles a foam-like substance, is being transformed into a versatile, eco-friendly alternative to traditional materials. By processing mycelium, Ecovative is creating a leather-like fabric for footwear, offering a glimpse into a future where fashion is not only stylish but also sustainable.
Moreover, they are innovating in the packaging industry by producing mushroom-based materials that serve as an environmentally friendly substitute for Styrofoam. These biodegradable packaging solutions can be composted, turning into nutrients for the ecosystem rather than pollutants. Eben Bayer, the mind behind Ecovative, is driven by a vision to reduce plastic pollution and the ecological footprint of animal agriculture. With a background in farming, Bayer advocates for responsible practices over industrial methods. He sees the current environmental challenges as opportunities for innovation, to reimagine and reinvent everyday products.
One of the most intriguing developments is the creation of a bacon alternative from mycelium, which, when seasoned and cooked, tastes exactly like traditional pork bacon. This not only addresses concerns about animal welfare and environmental impact but also offers new culinary experiences for consumers. Ecovative's work exemplifies how disorder can spark creativity, leading to transformative solutions that benefit both the planet and its inhabitants. Their technology, AirMycelium™, allows for the growth of materials in a controlled environment, using agricultural byproducts, which significantly reduces the need for land and resources compared to traditional animal farming. This method aligns with Bayer's vision of a world where everything from the buildings we live in to the food we consume is grown sustainably.
The concept of self-repairing buildings using mycelium-based materials is particularly intriguing, as it suggests a future where structures are not only environmentally friendly but also capable of responding and adapting to changes and damages over time. Ecovative's work is a testament to the power of biotechnology and its potential to shape a more sustainable and resilient world.
In New York City, architect Bjarke Ingels is working with a similar perspective to reimagine the cities in which we live. Ingels, a visionary architect, is reshaping urban landscapes with his innovative approach to design. His philosophy of 'formgiving'—a term derived from the Danish word 'formgivning'—is a testament to the power of architecture in crafting the future. Through projects like a proposal for flood-resistant infrastructure in New York, Ingels is not just designing buildings but is actively participating in the creation of sustainable and resilient cities for tomorrow.
The concept of hedonistic sustainability, as exemplified by Bjarke Ingels through projects like CopenHill and Copenhagen Harbour Baths, represents a transformative approach to urban design. CopenHill, a waste-to-energy plant in Copenhagen, stands as a testament to this philosophy, combining utility with recreation and aesthetics. It's not just a power plant; it's also an urban recreation center with a ski slope on its roof and a climbing wall, challenging the preconceived notions of industrial facilities. Similarly, the Copenhagen Harbour Baths, a project that transformed the city's waterfront into a vibrant public space, demonstrates how sustainable design can enhance the quality of urban life. These projects embody the idea that sustainability doesn't have to mean sacrifice but can lead to a richer urban experience, aligning environmental goals with the pursuit of pleasure and community engagement.
The success of these initiatives in Copenhagen has shown that integrating sustainability into the fabric of city life can create spaces that are not only eco-friendly but also widely embraced by the public for their added value to daily life. This approach encourages a shift in perspective, where sustainable practices are seen not as limitations but as opportunities to reimagine and enrich our living environments. The concept of sustainable cities extends beyond environmental benefits, offering a more enjoyable quality of life for their inhabitants. Copenhagen serves as a prime example, where the prevalent use of bicycles is driven by convenience and pleasure rather than solely ecological consciousness. This mindset shift is crucial for urban development, emphasizing that lifestyle enhancements are possible within eco-friendly frameworks.
Visionaries like Bjarke Ingels propose transformative ideas for urban landscapes, imagining a future where Manhattan's streets become verdant linear parks, fostering pedestrian activities and alternative personal mobility. Such projections suggest a future where urban spaces are not only greener but also more conducive to walking and cycling, reflecting a merger of city convenience with the tranquility of rural areas. This evolution of cities is not predetermined but is shaped by our collective aspirations and efforts. As we envision and demand more from our urban environments, we bear the responsibility to mold them into spaces that align with our desired lifestyles, thus redefining the essence of city living for future generations. The transformation of cities into sustainable, enjoyable habitats is an ongoing process, one that requires innovative thinking and a commitment to change from both citizens and planners alike.
Works of art are never necessarily complete. It’s up to the artist to decide when it is complete and that may be never. When you are crafting something, you can always keep coming back to it. You can always make changes because of new information you may have learned. You can borrow from the past. You can augment it. Things are fungible and changeable as long as you’re trying to make them better, and sometimes the way to make things better is to look at who needs help. Where is there a need? How can we improve upon how things are currently being done? We have powerful new tools and technologies available to us right now. And rather than just using them to entertain ourselves or to sell more stuff, we can meet actual human needs, altering and improving the experience of being alive.
Veena Somareddy's innovative approach to physical therapy through Neuro Rehab VR represents a significant shift in the rehabilitation landscape. By leveraging virtual reality technology, her company is addressing the critical need for accessible and engaging therapy options. The traditional methods of physical therapy, often unchanged for decades, can be monotonous and labor-intensive, leading to challenges in patient engagement and recovery outcomes.
Neuro Rehab VR's applications, such as the one involving dodging a green ball that appears to be hurtling towards the patient, not only make therapy more interactive but also tackle specific recovery goals like balance and weight shifting. This is particularly beneficial for stroke survivors who struggle with unilateral weakness.
Veena's vision extends beyond immediate rehabilitation, aiming to democratize healthcare by making these advanced tools available to those who might otherwise lack access. This commitment to inclusivity in healthcare technology could pave the way for more widespread adoption of VR in therapeutic settings, potentially transforming the way physical therapy is delivered and experienced. Neuro Rehab's innovative therapeutic systems are transforming the way rehabilitation is delivered for stroke survivors and individuals with PTSD. By leveraging immersive virtual reality environments, these systems enable patients to transcend their perceived limitations and engage in activities that were once daunting. For instance, a virtual grocery store not only aids in cognitive recovery through pattern matching exercises but also rebuilds confidence in performing everyday tasks. Similarly, exposure therapy within a controlled virtual setting has shown promise in reducing anxiety and fear associated with traumatic experiences. This technology's adaptability to simulate various scenarios offers a versatile tool for therapists, allowing them to tailor the rehabilitation process to each individual's needs and goals, ultimately facilitating a smoother transition back into daily life. The success stories, like Veena's patient regaining the ability to shop with her grandchildren, underscore the profound impact such therapeutic interventions can have on improving quality of life.
Eben Bayer notes, “Innovation occurs at the intersection of things. The greatest opportunities present themselves during times of chaos. In times of change, there’s a maximum opportunity to change everything.” The future is about integrating different interdisciplinary areas into one.
Boyan Slat observes, “Progress is not inevitable; it really requires conscious effort. Sometimes, people ask me, ‘Why you? Why did you decide to work on this?’ And I think it’s a strange question. A much more interesting question to me is why isn’t everyone doing this? If there is something that’s bothering you, I think it would be strange to just wait for somebody else to solve it.”
The decisions that we make around our technologies and how we’re going to live on this planet will actually dictate who and what we are to become. We have to ask ourselves, in this moment of complexity, what is it that we want to see happen? Where do we want to go?
These individuals highlighted are at the forefront of innovation and creativity, devising groundbreaking solutions to the world’s pressing challenges. We can all draw inspiration from their efforts as they tackle societal issues, improve our communities, while simultaneously achieving their own financial needs and goals. These trailblazers demonstrate that it’s possible to find purpose and fulfillment in one’s work while making a positive impact on the world.
What can you do to catalyze change and make your own impact in the world while meeting your financial needs and goals? What would that look like? How can you make your own dent in this world?