Dante Tagle
Diploma in Sustainability
What made you decide to undertake this course?
Many scientists, such as Dr. James Hansen of NASA, now believe that we have less than ten years to decarbonise the economy before we pass a major tipping point on climate change. Adequately reducing our carbon emissions requires massive transformation in the way we produce and consume things. Studying sustainability provided me with some of the knowledge necessary to be part of the solution to one of the biggest challenges facing mankind. The course also provided me with a qualification that is increasingly in demand.
Why did you choose Swinburne?
I can not imagine doing the course somewhere else. The units are practical, the quality of teaching is superb and all the teachers are passionate about the course. The best part is Swinburne’s National Centre for Sustainability is highly recognized by many organisations in Australia and other countries.
What are you doing now?
I am currently involved with several organisations here in Australia and overseas in promoting sustainability as well as climate change adaptation and mitigation measures. In addition, I decided to do a marketing course which will also be useful in promoting sustainability.
What have you gained from the course?
There is so much to be gained. Just from the first session, I understood how significant my carbon footprint is and the complexities involved if everyone on the planet aims for a western standard of living. Most of the knowledge we learned is difficult to acquire outside the experience provided by the course. Some of the topics that I really enjoyed in the sessions were concepts of sustainability; eco design; sustainable production and consumption; triple bottom line.
What has your favourite aspect of the course been?
The interaction with the teachers and other students was a life changing experience. My favourite aspect was learning how to develop a program for behavioural change and sustainable practices.
How do you foresee your qualification helping you in the future? What are your plans for the future?
Environmental issues are becoming a pressing concern. Australia's Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation (CSIRO) predicts a dramatic growth on ‘green-collar jobs’ within the next ten years. I am certain my sustainability qualification, together with my other qualifications, will assist me in managing climate change related opportunities and threats. My plan for the future is to play a leading role in the transformation required to bring ourselves and future generations back to having a safe climate. Climate change is a global problem and there needs to be an international response. There is plenty of work that needs to be done.
