Economic concerns should not prevent sustainability efforts
Asst. Prof. Zeynep Özdamar Ertekin has been the guest of the “Online Seminar Series” held by IUE Graduate School as part of Campus Izmir Talks. Ertekin, who delivered “Sustainable Marketing and COVID-19” titled seminar, stated that everyone should work collaboratively to ensure that sustainability efforts are not reduced, and sustainable development goals are not adversely affected post-coronavirus. Ertekin, said that the cooperation of individuals, businesses, non-governmental organizations, educational institutions, media, local governments and governments is necessary for sustainability.
Ertekin stated that economic concerns post corona are expected to prevent the environmental and social dimensions of sustainability. Ertekin said, “The purpose of businesses and governments may be to increase trade, production and consumption, and stimulate the economy. Fight against climate change may decrease. Carbon footprint and negative impact may increase after the outbreak, as it is still unclear how consumption habits and behaviors will change after the pandemic. Sharing platform models and applications may decrease due to hygiene concerns. During this time, it has been observed that disposable plastics increased a lot, and unconscious buying due to panic caused waste of food.”
The importance of the local will increase
Stating that the power of local economies, producers and companies will increase, Ertekin said the following:
“Virus reminded us about slowing down. Decreases are being experienced in excessive and unnecessary consumption habits. A simpler and minimalist lifestyle is being preferred now. There is an increase in do-it-yourself trends, which aim at repairing, transforming and turning individuals into producers. The importance and power of local economies, manufacturers and companies will increase. New production and distribution centers will be established nearby. An increase is expected in circular economy models and inclusive businesses and business models. Many sectors such as the fashion industry will be redesigned. Three-dimensional technologies, more demand-oriented models and artificial intelligence-supported production and planning models will be developed. Sustainability should be at the core of all practices in the post-corona period.”