Author: Bárbara Billón de Blas

The experience of “The Week” documentaries will surely be one of the things I will always remember about this master’s degree.It was both an awakening to the gravity of our environmental crisis and a call to connect with others in search of meaningful action.

At first, after watching the first documentary, I ended up really sad and worried. It had such an impact on me that I couldn’t stop thinking about my future, my future children’s future, my little cousins’ future… the future of all the people I love. I felt a huge weight, as if I suddenly realized what the climate crisis really means, and how much it will affect us all if we don’t act together. I was overcome with a deep fear and a great sadness for what we could lose.

This descent into the darker side of the ‘U’ was challenging but necessary.

However, as we moved into the following chapters, that initial sadness changed into something else. During the second documentary, even as we continued to delve deeper into the causes and complexity of the problem, I began to feel that this sadness and concern was turning into something different: a clearer understanding and, surprisingly, a kind of inner strength. I began to understand the importance of questioning the norms and values that have brought us to this point and reminded myself of the need to better align my life choices with my values.

Watching the third chapter, I realized that, despite what we face, there are solutions, there are people working for change, and that I and my whole class, even the whole population, can be part of that. I regained hope, and it was a huge relief.

Overall, “The Week” helped me realize that I don’t have to have all the answers or go on this journey alone. I am inspired to keep looking for ways to make a difference and to remember the power of shared understanding and action.

Ten years from now, I hope to look back and feel that I have been part of a movement that has not run away from the challenges of our time, but has faced them, together.

Looking to my future as an environmental engineer specialising in the circular economy, the documentary #MyJobMyFuture raises critical questions about the changing labour market and the impact of advanced technologies.

The advent of the fourth industrial revolution, characterised by AI, automation and interconnected devices, is reshaping jobs, presenting both opportunities and obstacles for professionals in various fields.

To my mind, the concept of the circular economy harmonises perfectly with the themes highlighted in the documentary. With automation comes increased demand for specialised, inventive and flexible skills. The circular economy, which encompasses sustainable resource management, waste minimisation and eco-innovation, requires deep critical thinking, strategic foresight and an interdisciplinary approach, qualities that are difficult to replicate with machines.

From my point of view environmental engineers like me occupy a relatively secure position, as these roles require human vision and innovative problem solving.

Furthermore, the film emphasises the importance of social resilience in the midst of polarisation, reflecting the core values of environmental engineering that prioritise social responsibility and the ethical obligation to foster inclusive and sustainable progress.

As engineers, we have a particular duty to advocate for innovations that safeguard ecosystems and cultivate green employment opportunities that are accessible and fair to all.

In short, when I think of my future as an environmental engineer, it is promising, but it requires effort and dedication. By honing skills such as strategic vision, creativity and ethical decision-making, I can position myself to drive sustainable solutions and make a meaningful contribution to the world.

Good evening, everyone!

My name is Bárbara Billón, I am 24 years old, and I was born in 2000 in Madrid.

I hold a degree in Environmental Technologies Engineering from Universidad Politécnica de Madrid (UPM), which provided me with a solid foundation in environmental protection  and other knowledges like waste management, treatment processes, and emerging technologies uses for sustainable development. This expertise is now being further complemented and expanded through my master’s studies in Circular Economy, where advanced strategies are explored, such as, sustainable business practices, eco-design, and efficient resource and energy management.

Additionally, my six-month Erasmus experience in Paris broadened my global perspective on sustainability and underscored the importance of international collaboration. This experience, combined with the diverse group of international colleagues I am fortunate to study alongside in my master’s program, has enriched my ability to communicate, respect, collaborate and consider varied perspectives—skills that are crucial for fostering innovative solutions and achieving a sustainable future.

I am convinced that the circular economy is vital to building a more sustainable and prosperous future, and I am eager to contribute to this transformative movement.

If you share an interest in circularity and wish to collaborate or exchange ideas, this blog is the perfect place to do it.

See you !