Sustainable Development Goals: A Call to Action for The Publishing Industry
Estimated reading time: 5 minutes
The United Nations' 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development set an extremely ambitious and noble goal, more specifically a set of 17 goals aiming at ending all forms of poverty, fighting inequalities and tackling climate change. The process started in 2015 when the UN General Assembly provided a new global policy framework that relates to social, economic and environmental aspects: the SDGs.
Sustainable Development Goals - An Overview
SDG stands for “Sustainable Development Goals”. The first step to understanding these otherwise known as the Global Goals is to start from the definition of “sustainable development”. According to the UN, it is “development that meets the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs”.
To achieve sustainable development, it is necessary to work simultaneously on three dimensions: economic growth, social inclusion and environmental protection. This can adeptly be summarized with the five “P”s
People. Eliminate poverty and guarantee dignity.
Prosperity. The SDGs aim to ensure that all human beings can enjoy prosperous and fulfilling lives and that economic, social, and technological progress occurs in harmony with nature.
Peace. Foster peaceful, just and inclusive societies which are free from fear and violence.
Partnership. Only the collaboration between states and companies makes it possible to achieve these global goals.
Planet. It is an asset to be respected and protected.
“Publishers are uniquely positioned to drive progress in the areas highlighted by the SDGs.”
SDGs and the Publishing Industry
The Publishing Industry immediately responded to this call to action with the SDG Publishers Compact, which gathered stakeholders from across the publishing industry to pledge a commitment to the future and dedication to the United Nations' 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.
As stated in the International Publishers Association Report on SDGs: “Publishers are uniquely positioned to drive progress in the areas highlighted by the SDGs. We are able to both focus on our own business practices, ensuring we operate in a sustainable and equitable way. However, we are also agents of change, able to drive progress across our local industries, especially focused in areas of education, equality and justice, giving a voice and platform to those who can shape society and our culture for the better.”
“We are committed to supporting the publication, production and circulation of content that will promote and inspire actions towards SDGs. ”
DropCap commitment
At DropCap we could not agree more. We are committed to supporting the publication, production and circulation of content that will promote and inspire actions towards SDGs. Everyone can play their part and we will help our publishing partners to inspire readers for a more sustainable and equitable future. For the upcoming Bologna Children’s Book Fair, we have worked on a selection of titles, each one of them focusing on a specific goal.
What’s Your Choice
By Bryan Smith
Published by Boys Town Press
World Rights Available
Isaac’s mom and teacher work together to help Isaac learn four simple steps to making the best choice. And this works fine, when one option seems a lot better than the others. But what happens when Isaac doesn’t like any of the options? Learn along with Isaac as he practices making choices, and figures out how to think of himself AND others in the decision-making process. Part of the Stepping Up Social Skills series.
The Future of Science is Female
By Zara Stone
Published by Mango Publishing
Rights Sold: French, Spanish, Korean
If we want to encourage more girls to enter into science careers, we need to show females that this field was made for them to conquer. Zara Stone’s engaging narrative does just that by introducing readers to brilliant but relatable female role models who are using science to positively change our world. ─Colleen Russo Johnson, PhD and Chief Scientist for Dream Studios Inc.
Climate Change and the Great Blue Hole Hazard
By Robert Scott Thayer
Published by Thompson Mill Press
World Rights Available
Award: Mom's Choice Award
“We are happy to award deserving books like Kobee Manatee Climate Change and The Great Blue Hole Hazard. Our panel of judges really felt this book merited a place on our list of the best in family-friendly products that parents and educators can feel confident in using.” —Dawn Matheson, CEO, Mom's Choice Awards
He Leads
By June Smalls
Published by Familius
World Rights Available
The majestic mountain gorillas live in family groups, led by a powerful silverback. Juxtaposing the apes' awesome strength and surprising gentleness, He Leads tells the story of family loyalty and love. With stunning, lifelike illustrations and facts on each page, this beautiful picture book is a monument to these endangered gentle giants.
She Leads
By June Smalls
Published by Familius
Rights Sold: French (Africa & Haiti), Japanese
She Leads offers an incredible story and an unforgettable tribute to the strength of a true leader. Open your eyes, princess. One day you will lead.
What on Earth? Climate Change Explained
By Raymond Bergin
Published by Bearport Publishing
World Rights Available
Earth's climate is always changing, but what does that really mean? Let's investigate the problem of climate change and explore its impact on our planet, the animals around us, and ourselves. Readers will learn the problems of the present, what they might face in the future, and what they can do to help.
How the Birds Became Friends
By Noa Baum
Published by Familius
World Rights Available
Long ago when the world was very young, the birds did not get along. They were always fighting about who was better. Beaks pecking! Feathers flying! Squawks and screeches everywhere! Little Quail feels lost in all the noise, but with each bird trying to outdo the others, Quail bravely takes an unexpected approach. In this delightful take on a Burmese folktale from award-winning storyteller Noa Baum and illustrated by renowned ecologist and artist Zev Labinger, watch the power of kindness change the world.
The Forgotten Rabbit
By Nancy Furstinger
Published by The Gryphon Press
World Rights Available
Written so that children five and up can immediately grasp the point, this children’s picture book gives honest but charming insights into the proper care of a rabbit as a companion animal. The story is suspenseful, moving, and, in the end, joyful. The active language will delight children while helping them build vocabulary skills.
Mindful Cooking
By Stephanie Finne
Published by Jump!
World Rights Available
In this book, early fluent readers will learn how cooking can help us focus, relieve stress, and increase mindfulness. Step by step instructions help readers meal prep and execute a fun, healthy recipe they can be proud of.
Obama's Children
By Earl Braggs
Published by Madville Publishing
World Rights Available
“Like notes of jazz played between notes of jazz music,” Obama’s Children is a headlong riff on the motifs of race, history, legacy and love. These vital poems reverberate with elements of improvisation and pastiche and are galvanized by exultant word play and an ecstatic vividness of spirit. Of Earl S. Braggs’ many collections, Obama’s Children is a fearless, sparkling magnum opus.—Gianna Russo, Wordsmith of the City of Tampa, and author of One House Down
Thank you for reading and, above all, for being part of this meaningful conversation about the sustainable future that we are building together. We can make the world a better place, one book at a time.
