Sustainability is a fantasy without trust, according to Ahmad Ibrahim.

In the pursuit of a greener, fairer, and more resilient world, trust is an essential foundation. It underpins collective action, crisis management, and public buy-in for long-term policy, serving as a cornerstone for sustainability governance. However, a prevalent issue in global climate negotiations and community dialogues is the erosion of trust.

This distrust extends beyond borders, permeating within nations and between governments and citizens. Developed countries are accused of shifting the environmental burden onto poorer nations while preaching virtue. Wealthy nations must deliver on climate finance pledges, and corporations must stop making empty sustainability claims and engage in greenwashing regarding net-zero targets.

The distrust dilemma can hinder progress, paralyzing decision-making, fueling populism, and fostering the politics of blame. It can also lead to the erosion of faith in institutions and the possibility of a shared destiny. The crisis is not just environmental or economic, but one of faith in each other's integrity.

The 2023 UN Climate Summit in Dubai offered a case study in this, with many developing nations feeling that the wealthy world was still unwilling to honor long-promised financial support. Policies must reflect the voices of those most affected, including the involvement of indigenous communities in conservation efforts, engaging youth in climate dialogues, and ensuring marginalized groups are at negotiation tables.

Climate funds must publish where money goes, who benefits, and how impacts are measured. Transparency is key to rebuilding trust. Governments and corporations must open their processes to scrutiny, demonstrating that their actions align with their pledges.

Local governments must follow through on community projects, and businesses must act responsibly, avoiding the politics of greenwashing. Rebuilding trust can foster the possibility of shared global sustainability goals.

The urgency to address the rise of distrust cannot be overstated. Climate migration, resource conflicts, and social unrest may escalate due to the absence of trust. The future we want—a future where everyone has clean air to breathe, clean water to drink, and a stable climate— depends on our ability to rebuild trust and work together.