All the SDGs are wicked problems; we will never fully solve them,” said the first speaker, Mihkel Kangur, a scientist and head of teaching and development at Rakvere State Gymnasium. The “wicked problems” related to the SDGs, such as sustainable transport, employment, and living standards, do not have a clear cause or solution. We have no historical precedents to resolve them, decisions are heavy, and even when countries agree on something, not everyone can adapt. While non-renewable natural resources have never run out before, “renewable” natural resources are disappearing, including biodiversity, forests, and a stable climate.
As a positive example of improvement, Kangur cited the ozone holes, which are much less talked about today compared to a few decades ago. As an interesting detail, he mentioned that the first newspaper article about climate change was published in the United States in 1912, raising concerns about rising temperatures in future centuries due to the increasing combustion of coal. Later, ecologist Triin Reitalu emphasized the importance of biodiversity. Participants went in small groups to observe and photograph biodiversity in the surrounding streets.
On the second day of activities, we met Farištamo Eller (NGO Save Estonian Forests), who described her work as an environmental activist. A professional pianist, she noted that she relies on a network of experts and scientists for her articles. Many people cannot publicly express their opinions, and an activist brings them to light. “Any initiative that does not talk about reducing consumption is greenwashing,” said Eller.
During the Staff Week, one of the aspects that particularly impressed the participants was the interdisciplinary approach to environmental issues. In addition to presentations and expert interventions, it became clear that SDG-related challenges can be addressed in creative and innovative ways. A significant example was the moment of sharing with Kuressaare Ametikool students dedicated to sustainable fashion, demonstrating that even the fashion industry, often criticized for its environmental impact, can contribute to raising awareness and reducing waste. This practical approach reinforced the message that every sector can play its part in securing the planet’s future.
On the last day of training, Markus Vetemaa, a professor of fisheries at the University of Tartu, stated that the Baltic Sea is improving in terms of toxins. However, nutrient levels are increasing along with the populations of seals and cormorants, which together consume nearly three times the amount of fish caught by humans. Vetemaa pointed out that humans have altered nature’s balance to such an extent that it cannot restore its previous equilibrium without intervention. For example, with the decrease in snow cover, spring floodplains—where fish had access to enough nutrients, warmth, and sunlight to spawn—have significantly diminished.
Over the three days, numerous group work sessions and presentations on sustainable development activities in the participating schools were held. The fashion designers from Kuressaare Ametikool presented the “Insectcalyptic” fashion collection, created with teacher Piret Paomees using recycled diving suits, highlighting ecological balance and overconsumption. The students’ enthusiasm and excellent presentation made a profound impression on the partners. The next Staff Week is scheduled for late November in Trento, at Centromoda Canossa.
You can find interviews with the experts involved in this Staff Week at this link. https://youtu.be/3xR60FiTkj8?si=RIftbaRmwPDm3Ff0
