Ideas that change the world - Citizen Action
The power of ideas to change the world has always been stuck on my mind. But as I grew older those thoughts of catalyzing ideas that could spur people into action faded away with my increasing cynic view of the world.
Well, recent events, such as the current economic crisis, have vindicated some of my thoughts on what was “wrong with the world today”. Others, such as the election and rhetoric of President Obama, have re-ignited the dreamy idealist in me.
It is with that sense of renewed hope, that I see all around me shinny examples of young idealists, such as myself, take action and taking an active role in shaping our current world and their respective environments.
Some good friends of mine, Adi and Andrei, are taking part in a campaign by Societe General, that encourages young people to come up with ideas that are practical, implementable and that change the way we do things.
Don’t get me wrong, the cynic in me still sees Societe General as a big money making machine with no real concern for the state of the world or its environment (except for its economical environmnet). Coorporate Social Responsability in my head is still a big marketing buzzword, and a wishwash PR stunt.
But nontheless, I’m happy to see my friends take action, in a field that is close to their home and hearts.
Their project is about Eco-agriculture and ways of making it a viable business venture in rural Romania. I think it’s about time Romanians wash themselfs of the image of peasantry and realise the potential that their soil has to feed the rest of Europe with good, ecological, healthy products. Specially now that most of the soils of Southern Europe are largely contaminated after years of intensive industrial farming. Romania, as a new entrant to the European Union, has much to gain from the access to such a large market. It needs people like Adi and Andrei to forge ahead and shape their fellow countrymen mentality to openness of new ideas.
Well done guys, I’m really happy for you and hope to see you succeed with this project.
You can learn more by visiting the project’s website. They have conducted a series of interesting interviews, from which I highlight the one with the General Director of the General Direction for Rural Development, from the Romanian Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development.