BỘ GIÁO DỤC VÀ ĐÀO TẠO

ĐẠI HỌC KINH TẾ TP. HỒ CHÍ MINH

KHOA KINH DOANH QUỐC TẾ - MARKETING

SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT

TOPIC: PERSONAL ACTIVITY

Lecturer: Nguyễn Hữu Dũng

Course code: 24C1ECO50122028

Student: Trần Thị Thanh Thảo

Class - Course: KMP002 - 49

Student ID: 31231025653

TP. Hồ Chí Minh – 2024

 PREFACE
Dear Mr. Nguyen Hữu Dũng,

Sustainable development is an important topic in today's era. As we face issues such

as climate change, resource depletion and environmental pollution, finding ways to
develop in a sustainable and balanced way is more necessary than ever.

Realizing that importance, this essay is written to synthesize the knowledge that I have
drawn from group activities with topic Priva: Shaping Sustainable Cities, as well as to
relate it to other practical sustainable development issues.

It is inevitable to make mistakes through the process of writing this essay, and I hope
for your understanding in this regard. Simultaneously, I assure that I will refrain from
using any form of cheating or plagiarism.

Wishing you a productive and effective day.

Sincerely,

Thanh Thảo.

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TABLE OF CONTENTS

1. Activity 01............................................................................................................2

1.1. System Thinking’s meaning..............................................................................2

1.2. Why do students need system thinking to achieve the SDGs?.......................3

1.2.1. Understanding the interconnections between the SDGs................................3
1.2.2. Solving complex problems............................................................................3

1.3. Developing a sustainable transportation system.............................................4

1.3.1. Meaning.........................................................................................................4
1.3.2. Economy........................................................................................................4
1.3.3. Society...........................................................................................................5
1.3.4. Environment...................................................................................................5
1.3.5. Students’ role.................................................................................................5

2. Activity 02............................................................................................................6

2.1. Case study...........................................................................................................6

2.2. Related SDGs......................................................................................................7

2.3. Advantages and Challenges to achieve SDG goals..........................................8

2.3.1. Advantages.....................................................................................................8
2.3.2. Challenges......................................................................................................9

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1. Activity 01

1.1. System Thinking’s meaning

System thinking is an approach to problem-solving by viewing issues as part of

a larger system, rather than addressing them in isolation. Only by

understanding the relationships between parts can we grasp the root causes of

problems, neglecting interactions within the system may pose risks to the entire

system.

System thinking is both a tool and a series of approaches based on the belief

that the components of a system are always closely interconnected with each

other as well as with other systems.

Sustainable development requires us to view the world as an interconnected

system across space and time, so learners need System thinking to understand

and grasp concepts more easily.

1.2. Why do students need system thinking to achieve the SDGs?

Students need to apply System thinking to achieve the SDGs because these

goals are closely related to the three pillars: Economy, Society, and

Environment. System thinking enables a holistic and multidimensional

approach, providing the following benefits:

1.2.1. Understanding the interconnections between the SDGs

Because the SDGs do not exist independently but interact with one another.

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An example of the interconnection between the SDGs is SDG 3 (Good Health

and Well-being) and SDG 6 (Clean Water and Sanitation). Clean water and

good sanitation (SDG 6) help reduce diseases, improving health (SDG 3),

which in turn has a positive impact on education (SDG 4 – Quality Education)

and the economy (SDG 8 – Decent Work and Economic Growth) due to a

healthier community. If we focus solely on health without paying attention to

clean water, the results will not be sustainable, illustrating the necessity of

system thinking.

1.2.2. Solving complex problems

The issues addressed by the SDGs are often very complex, involving multiple

fields. System thinking helps students approach these problems from various

perspectives, rather than being confined to a specific field, enabling them to

develop comprehensive and optimal solutions.

For example, when addressing the issue of climate change (SDG 13 – Climate

Action), students need to consider environmental, economic, social, and energy

aspects. They might research renewable energy policies, find ways to mitigate

negative impacts on communities, and ensure sustainable development.

Systems thinking helps integrate these factors to provide solutions that are

environmentally effective and economically and socially feasible.

1.3. Developing a sustainable transportation system

1.3.1. Meaning

Developing a sustainable transportation system involves constructing and

operating transportation systems to meet current and future mobility needs

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while minimizing negative environmental impacts and ensuring economic and

social development.

To effectively carry out this process, it is essential to ensure a balance among

the three pillars: Economy, Society, and Environment.

1.3.2. Economy

Sustainable transportation is an efficient and cost-effective transport system

that minimizes negative environmental impacts and promotes economic growth

by connecting regions and facilitating trade.

Developing a sustainable transportation system is closely related to SDG 9

(Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure) and SDG 11 (Sustainable Cities and

Communities).

SDG 9: Sustainable transportation is a foundation for sustainable development,

helping to build infrastructure, drive economic growth, connect communities,

and protect the environment.

SDG 11: Safe and accessible public transportation systems help reduce

congestion and pollution, creating livable cities and communities.

1.3.3. Society

Developing a sustainable transportation system is related to SDG 10 (Reduced

Inequality) by expanding transportation services to all demographic groups,

particularly vulnerable groups such as people with disabilities and the elderly.

An effective and equitable public transportation system ensures that everyone,

regardless of income, gender, or location, has the opportunity to participate in

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 social and economic activities and access essential services, thus contributing

to reducing inequality in society.

1.3.4. Environment

Developing a sustainable transportation system is closely tied to SDG 13

(Climate Action) because transportation is a major source of emissions.

Therefore, transitioning to sustainable vehicles and infrastructure is essential to

reduce carbon emissions. Environmentally friendly public transportation and

green vehicles help lower emissions, combat climate change, and contribute to

building a green future and protecting the planet.

1.3.5. Students’ role

Students, as the leaders of the future, need to understand that developing

environmentally friendly, socially equitable, and economically supportive

transportation is crucial. This not only helps address current environmental and

social issues but also opens up career opportunities in green and sustainable

fields, while ensuring a safe and sustainable future for future generations.

2. Activity 02

2.1. Case study

Topic: Priva: Shaping Sustainable Cities.

Main idea: The article "Priva: Shaping Sustainable Cities" centers on how

Priva, a company known for its technology and intelligent solutions, is

advancing the creation of sustainable cities. The article emphasizes the

following key points:

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  Advanced technology solutions: Priva offers sophisticated technological

solutions for managing and optimizing systems like air conditioning,

lighting, and water use, which helps lower energy consumption and

reduce environmental impact.

 Integration and connectivity: Priva's solutions help integrate and connect

various systems within a city to enhance efficiency and management

capabilities.

 Supporting sustainability goals: Priva's technologies and solutions

support achieving sustainability goals, such as reducing carbon

emissions, conserving resources, and improving quality of life.

 Sustainable and green future: The article highlights Priva's dedication to

creating intelligent and eco-friendly cities, with the goal of fostering a

greener and more sustainable future for urban areas.

This case study has 03 main learning objectives:

 Gain insights into innovative technologies and strategies for sustainable

cities.

 Examine case studies of cities’ sustainable practices and evaluate their

effectiveness.

 Determine the critical factors that contribute to successful sustainable

urban development and how they can be replicated or adapted in other

contexts.

Of which, the first objective left the most impression on me for several reasons:

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  Understanding advanced technologies: It offers insights into the most

recent technologies being implemented to tackle urban challenges,

including improving energy efficiency and reducing pollution.

 Sustainable strategies: It aids in understanding effective strategies for

sustainable development, demonstrating how technology and policy can

be integrated to achieve sustainability objectives.

 Practical application: Knowledge of these technologies and strategies

can be utilized in real-world projects or research, resulting in practical

solutions for both current and future urban challenges.

 Future orientation: Understanding innovative solutions aids in

anticipating future trends and preparing for developments in the field of

smart and sustainable urban growth.

2.2. Related SDGs

This case study is reflected in two main SDGs: SDG 2 and SDG 9. SDG 2 is

demonstrated through the provision of high-quality, fresh plant-based diets,

while enhancing food security. SDG 9 is represented by creating smart

infrastructure for sustainable urban development and innovation.

SDG 2: Zero Hunger

 Relevance: Priva’s smart agricultural solutions, especially in greenhouse

management, optimize water, energy, and climate conditions to increase

crop yields, supporting sustainable agriculture and reducing hunger.

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  Practical example: Their technology helps farmers improve efficiency in

food production, minimizing resource waste and enhancing

sustainability in agriculture.

SDG 9: Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure

 Relevance: Priva drives innovation in urban infrastructure and industrial

systems with automation and energy-efficient technologies, fostering

sustainable industrialization and smart city development.

 Example: Their systems manage energy and resources in buildings and

greenhouses, improving industrial performance and promoting

sustainable growth through technological innovation.

Both SDGs emphasize Priva's role in using technology to support sustainable

agriculture and industrial innovation.

Besides, this case study also related to other SDGs: SDG 6, SDG 7, SDG 11,

SDG 12.

2.3. Advantages and Challenges to achieve SDG goals

2.3.1. Advantages

 Cutting-edge technology: Priva leverages automation, sensors, and AI to

optimize energy and water use in agriculture and urban infrastructure,

helping meet goals for sustainable agriculture and industrialization.

 Efficient resource management: Priva’s innovations minimize resource

wastage while improving productivity, which supports sustainability and

environmental conservation objectives.

2.3.2. Challenges

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 Significant upfront costs: Implementing advanced technologies requires

substantial financial and infrastructural investment, which can be a

hurdle for companies or regions with limited resources.

 Impact of climate change: Although Priva’s technologies help reduce

environmental harm, the ongoing global challenge of climate change

remains a significant obstacle, especially for ensuring sustainable

agriculture in the long term.

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REFERENCES
[1] Priva

<https://www.rsm.nl/fileadmin/Corporate/About_RSM/Positive_Change/

SDG_Cases/Priva_-_Shaping_Sustainable_Cities.pdf>

[2] Cabrera, D., & Cabrera, L. (2023). What is systems thinking?. In Learning,

design, and technology: An international compendium of theory, research, practice,

and policy (pp. 1495-1522). Cham: Springer International Publishing.

[3] Checkland, P. (1999). Systems thinking. Rethinking management information

systems, 45-56.

[4] THANH, N. PHÁT TRIỂN HỆ THỐNG GIAO THÔNG VẬN TẢI BỀN VỮNG

VỚI BIẾN ĐỔI KHÍ HẬU.

[5] Singh, A., Gurtu, A., & Singh, R. K. (2020). Selection of sustainable transport

system: a case study. Management of Environmental Quality: An International

Journal, 32(1), 100-113.

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