This video is good for keeping things in perspective.  If Tokyo and Osaka are under water within ten years and Japan is ruined economically as a result, I doubt there will be many Gaijin left living in Japan or many Japanese wealthy enough for international travel.  Of what benefit will all our study have been?  Do what you enjoy with your studies even if it takes longer.  There might be no long term reward so do it for the short term enjoyment.

It is not the fault of big business that this global problem is occurring.  It is individual greed.  Do we drive a car when it is within walking or bicycling distance?  How much meat to we consume when the effects of over consumption go way beyond the harm it does to our health?  How big of a house do we really need?  Will our kids be irreversibly socially harmed if they do not have the latest gadgets and clothing every month?  It goes on and on... Live simply so others (and we) may simply live.