top of page

A future where we work less, consume less and pollute less - Everything has one underlying crisis: the climate crisis

Anonymous

April 26, 2023

A future where we work less, consume less and pollute less - Everything has one underlying crisis: the climate crisis

This image was generated with Dream Studio AI.

I hope that the future has changed the consumption pattern of today's generation. This will result in less demand for consumer goods, fewer working hours for the individual worker, and thus more time for family, friends and hobbies. At the same time, it will result in less pollution of our planet.

I know that this also means a rebellion with the current division of labor and industry. Instead, I hope that the future will reward the social sector and social work better and also recognize all the work that takes place in the home - which is often done by women.

I hope that the future dares to act on the many danger signals that stand as flashpoints around the world. Whether it is wars, discrimination, injustice, undignified working conditions or psychological problems of young and old people. Everything has one underlying crisis: the climate crisis. It must be acted upon based on various measures, where the world's decision-makers must dare to act. I hope that will have happened in 2040.

related stories

hallo
Czy to bajka, czy nie bajka?
A better future... We drive electric cars, and electricity to them is provided by wind and nuclear power plants. Non-organic plastic replaced glass, in a garbage incineration plant with efficient filters made waste pits finally unnecessary. The air in Polish cities is suitable for breathing even in winter, and in summer we are not afraid of drought and lack of water. And instead of arming, we spend money on health protection and equal opportunities for children and adolescents. All this may be possible, but I'll put it between the fairy tales...
hallo
Den gröna framtiden
I would like to see a future where there has been a major change for the benefit of the environment and the future of the planet. Solar, wind and hydropower have replaced fossil energy sources. Buildings, houses, etc. are equipped to be self-sufficient both in terms of energy and, for example, basic raw materials such as potatoes and the like. Public transport has switched entirely to electric vehicles and there are incredible high-speed trains that can compete with flights between major cities.
hallo
Naturen er reddet
You have invented a technology that effectively breaks down CO2 from the atmosphere and you are back to a world without climate change. The gardens are healthy with beautiful coral reefs and full of fish. In the North there is winter with long periods of snow. Farther south in Europe there are rarer forest fires and normal amounts of rain that give good breeding. There are no climate refugees. They appreciate nature more and seek it out often. Animal welfare is also an important focus area and you eat less meat. Smartphones and computers are used less often, and you are less accessible by phone/mail both privately and at work.
hallo
Podróże w czasie
In 2040, the world looked very different than it did twenty years ago. Poland has become a peaceful, safe and united country around common values. The streets were clean, the cities well organized, and people lived in harmony, valuing their traditions and culture. There was an atmosphere of tranquility in the towns, with children playing in the backyards without fear, the elderly walking in the parks, and the neighbours knowing each other and helping each other in their daily lives. Local communities thrived and small family businesses thrived, supported by modern technologies and a conscious approach to the economy. There were no problems with crime or riots. The authorities have made sure that the country develops in a sustainable and safe way. Young people had good prospects – they could educate themselves at a high level, develop their passions and be sure that they would find a decent job. Thanks to a wise economic policy, Poland became self-sufficient – agriculture flourished, domestic companies produced modern technologies, and people enjoyed stability and prosperity. Society was united, proud of its history and ready to build the future in accordance with its own values. In the evening, sitting on the terrace of his house, John looked at the quiet streets and felt gratitude. He knew that his children were growing up in a world where they could feel safe, respect their roots and build a better future for generations to come.
Join #OurFutures now!

The future is shaped by our ideas and our actions today. Tell us about your visions of the future and help us create a futures narrative aimed at inspiring citizens, policy-makers and foresight experts alike!

Our-futures-banner-coloured_v3.jpg

The European Commission support does not constitute endorsement of the contents which reflects the views only of the authors, and the Commission cannot be held responsible for any use which may be made of the information contained.

ERA_logo.jpg

We support the European Research Area aimed at creating a single, borderless market for research, innovation and technology in the EU.

©OurFutures 2025, All rights reserved.

  • Instagram
  • Facebook
  • LinkedIn
  • YouTube
bottom of page