Jameel Gordon 1/30/25 Jameel Gordon 1/30/25

My Life’s Work: Building a Sustainable Future For Everyone.

To say the least, this is my life’s work: to deconstruct the complex relationships that bind our economic systems—businesses, consumers, and the environment—and build a future for everyone—and do so in a sustainable manner. Our current economic models extracts more than it gives, prioritizes short-term profits over long-term well-being, and leaves too many behind. I know we can reimagine a sustainable future because I am.

This is not just about theory; it’s about action. It’s about the complexity of designing businesses that empower rather than exploit—and the willingness to do so at a sunk cost. It’s about acknowledging our consumption patterns, our needs, our wants, our desires as humans, being able to meet these aspects of our humanity, and do so in a way that sustains rather than deplete.

People and the planet are a given because none of us has complete control over either. It’s about ensuring the entire planet and all its inhabitants aren’t an afterthought, but it’s very foundation. And I intend to do all of this peacefully, well-fed, and in my own chosen version of opulence, and I will do so for a lifetime + more.

When I am done—when all our frameworks are in place, when sustainability isn’t just a buzzword but a lived reality—I will take a step back. I will look at my work, look at my wife, look at my kids, and look at my friends—all of my friends. And then, together, we will decide what’s next. Because the work of building a better future doesn’t end; it evolves. And I wouldn’t have it any other way.🏁🥂😘

🍃Even eco-friendly, AI-loving entrepreneurs need a stylish digital home—explore Shopify and Squarespacethemes handpicked for you.

Jameel Gordon 1/29/25 Jameel Gordon 1/29/25

A Silent Spring: How Trump’s Spending Freeze Threatens The Environment

An ecocritical analysis of this news article [🤫] would focus on the environmental and sustainability implications of President Donald Trump’s decision to pause federal grants and loans. Ecocriticism examines how political, economic, and cultural decisions impact the environment, often scrutinizing power structures that influence ecological well-being.

1. Environmental Funding at Risk

The article mentions concerns about funding for hospitals, cancer research, and social services, but it does not explicitly address how Trump’s order affects environmental programs. However, given the scale of federal grants, it is likely that programs related to climate change mitigation, conservation, renewable energy, and environmental protection could be among those impacted. Ecocriticism would highlight how the defunding or delay of these programs could harm ecosystems, slow climate progress, or exacerbate environmental injustice.

2. Power and Environmental Policy

The debate over executive power versus congressional authority is central to this article. From an ecocritical standpoint, centralized executive control over federal spending raises concerns about whether environmental policies will be deprioritized or overturned in favor of short-term economic or political goals. If environmental grants and research funding are withheld, this could have long-term consequences for sustainability efforts, reinforcing the tendency of governments to prioritize economic concerns over ecological ones.

3. The Role of Economic Justifications in Environmental Policy

Republicans argue that the spending pause is meant to reduce waste and ensure efficiency. From an ecocritical perspective, this economic justification often masks deeper ideological battles over environmental regulation. Historically, efforts to reassess spending have led to cuts in funding for climate change research, clean energy development, and environmental justice programs. If such a pause leads to permanent reductions in these areas, it could slow down or reverse progress on sustainability goals.

4. Environmental Justice and Vulnerable Communities

The article mentions Meals on Wheels, healthcare funding, and social services, all of which are tied to environmental justice. Many marginalized communities rely on federal grants for clean water initiatives, disaster relief, and pollution control. A suspension of funding could disproportionately impact these communities, exacerbating existing environmental inequalities. Ecocriticism would draw attention to how power struggles in Washington directly impact the ability of vulnerable populations to access clean air, water, and sustainable living conditions.

5. The Larger Ecocritical Context: Precedent for Environmental Deregulation

Trump’s move is part of a broader historical pattern where executive power is used to challenge environmental policies. Ecocritics might compare this to previous instances where funding for climate programs was restricted or scientific research was censored under administrations that prioritized economic growth over sustainability. This decision could serve as a precedent for future leaders to justify defunding climate-related initiatives under the guise of fiscal responsibility.

Conclusion

From an ecocritical perspective, Trump’s order represents more than just a constitutional crisis it is also a potential environmental crisis. The suspension of federal grants and loans could stall critical sustainability efforts, weaken environmental protections, and exacerbate climate injustice. The broader issue at stake is not just executive overreach but how political power is leveraged to shape environmental policy and who ultimately bears the consequences.

I digress.

🍃Even eco-friendly, AI-loving entrepreneurs need a stylish digital home—explore Shopify and Squarespacethemes handpicked for you.

Jameel Gordon 1/9/25 Jameel Gordon 1/9/25

To Our Friends in LA

To my friends in Los Angeles, my friends with friends in Los Angeles, and my friends who are climate activists:

I deeply appreciate the relentless work of climate activists around the world who view these fires as yet another stark reminder of the severe consequences of the climate crisis. While your commitment to climate action is invaluable, right now is not the moment for that kind of activism. This is something different.

To my friends in LA: focus on securing the safety of your loved ones and your community. Work to prevent further destruction of public and private property, as well as the land impacted by these fires. Start thinking about how you will rebuild your community, your city, and even its leadership to ensure stronger, more effective leadership are in place to prevent this kind of devastation in the future. Secure the bags and pay it forward.

To my friends with loved ones in LA: take note. Protect your communities and your loved ones. Work to prevent further harm and destruction. Begin thinking collectively about how we can rebuild stronger communities and cities, which includes building leadership that can better serve and protect against future crises. Secure the bags and pay it forward.

In the meantime, I’ll be here sipping. Take care, loves! We’re unstoppable! 🏁🥷🏾👋🏾

🍃Even eco-friendly, AI-loving entrepreneurs need a stylish digital home—explore Shopify and Squarespace themes handpicked for you.

Jameel Gordon 1/6/25 Jameel Gordon 1/6/25

Our Future Economic Model

As I continue reflecting on the “future of economics,” I see it as the most obvious solution to the climate crisis. Previously, I shared a concept I called “A Simple Formula for Avoiding Climate Disaster: Clean Air, Oceans, Soil, and Sustainable Systems.” This idea emphasizes the urgent need to redesign how we produce, distribute, and consume. I’ve often said, “We’re going to redesign everything,” and by everything, I truly mean everything.

That said, one thing is clear: none of this will be possible unless we reconsider the future of economics in a meaningful, deep, and grounded way. None of our current economic models or systems are truly sustainable.

Now, don’t get me wrong—there are plenty of interesting ideas out there. But if I’m being honest, I don’t believe any of them represent a viable way forward for all of us. Many are misguided, benefiting only a select few, or they come with implications and results that simply aren’t justifiable. None of these systems—whether it’s socialism, barter economies, or otherwise—are equitable, fair, or sustainable enough to address the challenges we face.

For my part, I believe capitalism is still the best model we have. However, even capitalism has become outdated—a system that, at this point, is undeniably a source of many of our problems. While I would still label myself a capitalist, I must admit this model has reached its peak. So the question becomes: What’s next? What’s the evolution?

I have some thoughts about what this might look like. Perhaps it’s a system we’ve never attempted before, or maybe it’s a return to something humans once practiced long ago. I’m still exploring this, giving it thought and conducting research. But one thing is clear: without equitable, fair, and responsible finance, we’re headed for trouble. The math simply doesn’t add up in a world increasingly shaped by artificial intelligence.

Now, before anyone gets frantic, anxious, or confused, calm down. When I say we’re in trouble, I don’t mean it’s the end of humanity. What I’m saying is this: we can’t wait until we’re in the dark to change the batteries in our flashlight. Let’s change the batteries in our economic system now because the ones we’re using will not work in the future.

🤫🏁

🍃Even eco-friendly, AI-loving entrepreneurs need a stylish digital home—explore Shopify and Squarespacethemes handpicked for you.

Jameel Gordon 12/9/24 Jameel Gordon 12/9/24

A Simple Formula for Avoiding Climate Disaster: Clean Air, Oceans, Soil, and Sustainable Systems.

Now, let’s address the question at hand: how can we avoid a climate disaster?

The solution is quite straightforward. To avoid a climate disaster, we must ensure clean air, clean oceans and waterways, clean soil, and a sufficient amount of trees and natural vegetation to maintain the Earth’s natural cycles in balance.

Therefore, we must fundamentally rethink our entire transportation, production, and waste management systems.

That’s it.

🌿 Even environmentally conscious, AI-enthusiast entrepreneurs require a stylish digital home—explore Shopify and Squarespace themes carefully curated for you.

Jameel Gordon 12/4/24 Jameel Gordon 12/4/24

Facing the Climate Crisis: A Call for Relentless Action and Sustainable Solutions

When it comes to the climate crisis, one thing is certain: things are going to get significantly worse before they improve. I don’t mean to alarm you, but I want to remind you that it will require a lot of intentional effort, even in the face of deliberate opposition, and this doesn’t even consider the ignorance and indifference of certain individuals and groups.

However, as the climate continues to change and worsen the living conditions for all of us, we must remain relentless in our efforts to find sustainable solutions that can save lives. Preserving and protecting the natural environment from further degradation is not only essential for the survival of our species but also for our future generations.

Even eco-friendly, AI-loving entrepreneurs need a stylish digital home—explore Shopify and Squarespacethemes handpicked for you.

Jameel Gordon 12/2/24 Jameel Gordon 12/2/24

Rethinking the Natural Order: Challenging Beliefs and Unveiling Hidden Truths

When it comes to the natural world, many believe in the concept of a natural order. This belief has been a significant factor behind numerous divisions in our society, fueling wars, conflicts, and destructive human actions and behaviors that have only harmed the natural world that many believe they have dominion over.

Over the next few years, my work will reveal the existence of a natural order, which differs from the beliefs held by religious groups and scientists. The latter’s beliefs are flawed because they assume that there can be no new discoveries or that even the smallest changes, such as those at the atomic level, cannot impact everything. By everything, I mean EVERYTHING!

🍃Even eco-friendly, AI-loving entrepreneurs need a stylish digital home—explore Shopify and Squarespace themes handpicked for you.

Jameel Gordon 5/16/24 Jameel Gordon 5/16/24

From Inspiration to Impact with Oaks + Oars

My journey towards founding Oaks & Oars, a think tank focused on addressing the climate crisis, began unexpectedly yet profoundly in a library with my daughters. As I randomly picked up Bill Gates’ book, "How To Avoid A Climate Disaster," the first few chapters illuminated the gravity of the situation. This pivotal moment sparked a realization: the urgency of climate change demanded effective action beyond mere acknowledgment of its scientific facts. It became clear to me that whether we took effective climate action or not, the people most impacted would be those who are already the most marginalized. This understanding dawned on me as I read the book. I realized that even if we found some amazing solutions, the most marginalized would still bear the brunt of the consequences. This dynamic is evident even with the development and deployment of artificial intelligence. Without taking a holistic approach that considers equity, equality, and justice for all of humanity, our solutions to the climate crisis may inadvertently exacerbate existing problems for much of the world.

Despite the inherent challenges and the challenge of transitioning careers at my age, the clarity I gained from Gates’ book propelled me to make the daring choice to pivot professionally for the third time. Conversations with my then team lead only affirmed my conviction as I weighed the significance of working on climate solutions against other impactful causes.

With my commitment solidified as I transitioned from a passive observer to an active advocate, with newfound determination, I delved into the intricacies of the climate crisis, recognizing the need for multidisciplinary approaches to effect meaningful change. My vision crystallized around the establishment of Oaks & Oars, a dynamic, decentralized organization dedicated to reshaping societal perspectives and driving policy innovation at local, regional, and global levels.

Grounded in values of love, justice, and mercy, Oaks & Oars operates at the nexus of humanity and nature, emphasizing the importance of collaborative solutions that preserve both people and the planet. My mission—to challenge existing frameworks, pioneer new ideas, and foster social cohesion—guides our endeavors, while a commitment to tangible impact ensures relevance in a rapidly evolving landscape. I truly believe that the answers we need, the solutions we need, are already within the natural environment around us, waiting for us to discover, or in some cases, they lie in being aware of the importance and value of our natural environment so we can stop our destructive habits and work towards preserving our planet.

Through strategic leadership, research and development, project management, policy advocacy, and stakeholder engagement, Oaks & Oars is poised to lead the charge in leveraging artificial intelligence for sustainable development. With a focus on aligning technological innovation with the United Nations Sustainability Goals, my role within the organization exemplifies a dedication to driving transformative change through collaboration, innovation, and advocacy.

In essence, my journey from a chance encounter with Gates’ book to the establishment of Oaks & Oars embodies a commitment to addressing one of the most pressing challenges of our time, driven by a passion for positive change and a belief in the power of collective action. I believe we can shift away from mere advocacy and towards effective action for true changes in our society that preserve, protect, and provide for both the planet and its people.

🍃Even eco-friendly, AI-loving entrepreneurs need a stylish digital home—explore Shopify and Squarespace themes handpicked for you.