The conference
Article Type: Literature and insights From: Accounting, Auditing & Accountability Journal, Volume 27, Issue 4
The call for papers goes outThe theme “Sustainability”No surprises thereFor we read about it almost dailyAnd hear it on the news:“The world is heating up!”We’re told to change our ways
“The world is in great peril,” the keynote speakers cry“We must reduce our carbon footprintWe must reduce our wasteWe must conserve our fossil fuelsWe must reduce consumptionWe must live sustainablyIf the human race is to survive!” they grimly exclaim.
We’re told we need to re-design our products and servicesOur lifestyles and our goalsAnd so we say “Yes” at the conferenceWe’ll lead the chargeWe’ll incorporate sustainability in our coursesWe’ll use our influence over our studentsAnd encourage a change in thinking.
“Zero waste can be achieved,” we’ll tell our students“Zero carbon footprint is the ultimate goalAll it requires is a will to changeAnd some thought,”Not to mention zero growthA concept hard to swallow in the heady daysOf performance based bonuses.
But then I look around me;What of our conference venue?Is it sustainable?Alas, I think not!The flashest hotel in the cityWith lights on during the dayAnd not a solar panel to be seen!
What of our conference dinnerHeld across the street?A restaurant lit up like a Christmas treeAnd still no solar panels to be seen;Food and drink magnificentBut wait, how was it all produced?Sustainably I hope!
Sustainability – what a noble causeWe’ll teach it with a passionWe will write books and papers on itGive lectures and interviews on itBut when it comes to conferences on itWill we insist on practicing what we preach?Or, will we just enjoy the fruits of unsustainable consumerism?
Barbara Marie L'Huillier
Department of Finance and Accounting, Prince Mohammad Bin Fahd University, Al-Khobar, The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
