2023-24 Winners
Entrants to the 2023-24 Global Sustainable Development (GSD) Competition answered one of the following questions:
The UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) are due to expire in 2030. What would you propose to substitute the UN SDGs after 2030?
Considering your local area, which response(s) would you propose to achieve sustainable development?
Do you think its possible to protect the environment and achieve economic growth at the same time?
This year we received an eclectic mix of entries from across the world! Our judging panel reviewed the submissions, selecting the shortlist and the winner. The shortlisted entrants were invited to a virtual event in September 2024. The event involved an interactive discussion around global sustainable development and we announced the commended entries, the runners-up, and the winner of the competition.
Find out about the 2023-24 winners and what the judging panel thought of their entries:
Essay Submission Winner
Cyrus Chung Yin Chang (UK)
This was a very well elaborated piece of work that went beyond what is demanded from the participants. It pointed out what is currently missing from the Agenda 2030, then proposed a new version to compensate the areas that were inadequately executed. Cyrus' newly proposed framework was well thought out and is supported by elements of the current problems and examples of how this new framework can help solve them. What set this candidate apart was firstly, the attention to detail by comparing the current SDGs with their proposed framework, which set the solid foundation for their arguments. Secondly, it provided a detailed insight into the newly proposed framework focusing on its functionality. Thirdly, the good use of referencing tied this essay all together.
Creative Submission Winner
Sarah Ogundiran, Olukunbi Bello-Olusanya, OreofeOluwa Folowosele (Nigeria)
This piece of work was phenomenal as the message of the commentary and the visual piece of work complimented each other well. Creativity in answering this question is not easy especially from a painting, however the candidates successfully conveyed the message with the commentary. The video was well edited and clearly explained the meaning of the piece of work through different ethnic groups and how diversity and inclusivity can change the world. Which is crucial and relevant in today’s context.
Highly Commended Essay Submissions
Anabelle Thomas (UK)
Anabelle's essay successfully drew out the economic and environmental aspects with concrete case studies of different countries with their respective stages of development. It had good use of quantitative information and graphs to support its argument and its use of the Kutznet curve set the tone of the essay and was thoroughly explored throughout the work with examples of different economies around the world. It has good use of reference, and it would further success if the solutions in the conclusion were further explored.
Li Chi Lok Lorraine (Hong Kong)
This essay had good use of referencing in supporting its arguments and well considered the 3 pillars of sustainable development as a foundation to achieve the balance of economic growth and environmental protection. It was very thought provoking in a sense where it challenges the current way of thinking about economic growth and finite resources and the issues that persistent environmental damages may cause more harm in the long run. What could further enhance the chance to win, this essay can provide examples of current practices of the circular economy to provide a solid argument.
Highly Commended Creative Submissions
Moronike Bello-Olusanya (Nigeria)
Submission type: Poem
This poem was outstanding in its own creativity and successfully answered the question. It highlights the importance of balancing economic growth and environmental protection. The positive tone gives hope and vision to achieve this balance. However, it can benefit with more exploration in the commentary section of how this can be achieved.