Discussion Courses - Sustainable Systems at Work
a five-session course for the workplace, designed to further organizational sustainability initiatives
"At the end of the day, the role of business is to generate prosperity and a better quality of life for everyone ... we should never operate at the expense of the earth or societies or future generations."
- Ray Anderson
Discussion Course Goals:
- To evaluate the current economic model and consider the case for change
- To examine the concept of sustainability from an organizational perspective
- To evaluate principles and frameworks for guiding a vision
- To identify tools and strategies for implementing a framework
- To develop an action plan to advance organizational change
Topics Covered:
- Seeing the Big Picture
- Consider the case for sustainability from a social, ecological and economic perspective
- Compare "Industrial Age" thinking with a systems thinking approach
- Identify the threats and opportunities current global trends present for your organization
- Identify actions that can be taken within your organization to reduce energy use
- Taking a Closer Look
- Evaluate different views of what constitutes a sustainable business
- Examine the concept of "sustainable consumerism"
- Consider the potential for eco-design and innovation in creating a sustainable organization
- Identify actions that can be taken to address materials used and waste generated by your organization
- Framing Sustainability
- Consider sustainability frameworks and evaluate for potential fit within your organization
- Examine case studies of successful strategies implementation
- Identify the "nature's services" your organization depends on
- Identify actions that can reduce transportation used by your organization
- Seeing it Through
- Identify qualities, tools, and resources needed for the transition to sustainability
- Consider the potential for employees to take leadership roles in promoting sustainability
- Consider one's personal sphere of influence and the power to make change
- Identify actions to conserve water and lessen the impact of food choices by your organization
- Focusing on Action
- Identify, prioritize and plan for integration of sustainability goals
The Canadian Earth Institute supports the commitment of individuals who seek to protect the earth.
389 Atkins Avenue, Victoria, B.C. V9B 3A1 250.727.9163 Email
Home · Hands-On Learning · Transitions · Discussion Courses · Community Activities · About Us · Contact Us · Resources