1. UNDERSTANDING & LEADING SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT Phil Lane, Jr. Four Worlds International www.fwii.net

2. Overview

3. The term “sustainable development” is being used in many different ways, for example: In the context of forestry, sustainable development can mean the harvesting of trees and other forest products at a rate that does not exceed the capacity of the forest to regenerate itself.

4. In the context of urban planning, sustainable development can mean managing growth within the capacity of infrastructure to service the population.

5. In the context of health promotion, sustainable development can mean a pace and type of economic activity that does not jeopardize the wellbeing of people.

6. In the context of international development projects, sustainable development can mean those activities designed not to exceed the socio-ecological capacity of the community to carry on from within.

7. Talking Circle Topic: What are other contexts within which you have heard the term sustainable development being used?

8. Social World Natural World Human Thinking & Activity Understanding & Leading Sustainable Development will focus on how human thinking and activity influence both the social and natural worlds

9. Module I: Coming to Terms

10. What is development? The root of the word “ development” is the French word développer - to unroll or unwrap

11. A process by which potentialities become apparent; by which a fuller, greater or better state is realized Development:

12. A process through which something is made more available or put into use A process through which something is exploited, or converted into a new function, or has its value increased Development:

13. What is sustainability? The capacity to keep up or keep going

14. The capacity to supply with necessities or nourishment; to provide for The capacity to support, hold, or bear up from below; bear the weight of Sustainability:

15. What is sustainable development? In 1980 the International Union for the Conservation of Nature published the World Conservation Strategy in which the term “ sustainable development ” was first used.

16. Development is sustainable if it “meets the needs of the present without comprom-ising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs”. (The 1987 Brundtland Commission, set up by the United Nations General Assembly)

17. “ Sustainable development is a socio-ecological process characterized by the fulfillment of human needs while maintaining the quality of the natural environment indefinitely. ” (Wikipedia) Other Definitions:

18. “… sustainable development is interpreted as a common currency that both unifies environmental, social and economic values and links today ’ s choices to tomorrow ’ s consequences. ” (A Guide to Sustainability, from Canadian Choices for Transitions to Sustainability, Ottawa: Projet de societe, May 1995)

19. “ Sustainable development involves the simultaneous pursuit of economic prosperity, environmental quality and social equity.” (World Business Council on Sustainable Development)

20. “ Sustainability is meeting the needs of all humans, being able to do so on a finite planet for generations to come while ensuring some degree of openness and flexibility to adapt to changing circumstances. ” (Jerry Sturmer, Santa Barbara South Coast Community Indicators)

21. “ Human beings are at the center of concern for sustainable development. They are entitled to a healthy and productive life in harmony with nature. ” (Rio Declaration, adopted by the United Nations conference on Environment and Development in 1992)

22. “ In the final analysis sustainable development is about long-term conditions for humanity ’ s multi-dimensional well-being. ” (Soubbotina, Beyond Economic Growth , The World Bank, 2004)

23. Criticisms of Current Definitions of Sustainable Development They do not provide clear guidance about what to do differently. 1.

24. Current uses of the term “sustainable development” in policy documents: They tend to favour the continued growth of industrialized nations at the expense of development in poorer nations. Economic policies based on concepts of growth and the continued depletion of resources cannot be sustainable. 2. 3.

25. An Indigenous view of Sustainable Development The closest equivalent that the Cuna Tribe of Panama has for the term “sustainable” is the word harmonious Harmony with all living things In tune Peaceful Marked by agreement

26. Talking Circle Topic: What other definitions of sustainable development have you heard/used? Which definition do you prefer? Why?

27. Module II: Models for Exploring Sustainable Development

28. Interdependent and Mutually Reinforcing Pillars of Sustainable Development United Nations 2005 World Summit Outcome Document Social Development Environ- mental Protection Economic Develop- ment

29. A Fourth Pillar “… cultural diversity is as necessary for humankind as biodiversity is for nature.” Sustainable development cannot be understood “simply in terms of economic growth, but also as a means to achieve a more satisfactory intellectual, emotional, moral and spiritual existence”. Universal Declaration on Cultural Diversity (UNESCO, 2001)

34. It can also be useful to speak about political sustainability, which refers to the processes through which decisions are made and power is arranged and distributed.” (Bopp & Bopp, Recreating the World , 2006) Adding One More Pillar

35. Putting it All Together Political Partici- pation Economic Develop- ment Cultural Diversity Social Develop- ment Environmental Protection

37. Characteristics of Sustainable Development that Lead to these Outcomes Economic development is carried out in a way that is equitable for all the world’s peoples. Equitable Social Development Economic Development

38. Economic development is carried out in a way that is viable in terms of environmental protection. Viable Environ- mental Protection Economic Develop- ment

39. Bearable Social develop-ment that is bearable by the environment. Environ- mental Protection Social Development

40. Environ- mental Protection Economic Develop- ment Social Development Bearable Equitable Viable Sustainable

43. Environmental Protection Political Participation Human rights Democratic development Good governance

44. Political Participation Economic Development Appropriate economic policies Efficient resource allocation More equitable access to resources Increasing the productive capacity of the poor Environmental Protection

45. Political Participation Economic Development Social Development Improved income distribution Gender equity Investing in basic health & education Emphasizing participation of the beneficiaries Environmental Protection

46. Political Participation Economic Development Cultural Diversity Sensitivity to cultural factors Recognition of values conducive to development Social Development Environmental Protection

47. The Medicine Wheel Model A Powerful Mapping Tool A Universal Archetype

48. The Individual Physical Mental Spiritual Emotional The Medicine Wheel Model

49. The Medicine Wheel Model The Family or Clan Dominant Thinking Patterns Cultural & Spiritual Patterns Human Relations Physical Environment & Economy

50. Political & Administrative Cultural & Spiritual Economic & Environmental Social The Community The Medicine Wheel Model

51. The Wider World Cultural Environment Political & Ideological Environment Economic & Ecological Environment Social Environment The Medicine Wheel Model

52. The Medicine Wheel Model: An Integrated Systems Approach Area or Country Community Family or Clan Individual

53. Vision The Medicine Wheel Model: Vision The Wider World Community The Person Volition Participation Family, Clan or Group

54. Talking Circle Topic: Develop your own model that shows which domains of human activity need to be harmonized to achieve sustainable development.

55. Module III: Strategies for Implementing Sustainable Development

56. Three Key Strategies Systems Thinking: Using a determinants approach Transdisciplinarity: Working beyond the boundaries Working from Principle 1 . 2 . 3 .

57. Systems Thinking: Using a determinants approach

58. Brainstorming question: What are the things that people need to have a sustainable life?

63. Case Example: The Pathways to Prosperity Program

64. Pathways to Prosperity Program Presented by United Indians of All Tribes Foundation Initial funding provided by the Northwest Area Foundation

65. To assist our Native Community in the journey from poverty to well-being Program Goal

68. What is poverty? Poverty is not simply “a lack of jobs or income”, but rather “a web of interwoven problems—poor schooling, bad health, family troubles, racism, crime and unemployment—that can lock families out of opportunity, permanently”. Joan Walsh “Stories of Community Building and the Future of Urban America”

69. The Tree of Poverty has many roots

73. Determinants of Well-being Poor health Vibrant health Weak cultural and spiritual identity Strong cultural and spiritual identity Unmet basic needs Basic needs fulfilled Lack of basic safety and security Personal safety and security Fractured social networks Strong social networks

74. Determinants of Well-being Poor education Appropriate education and training Unemployment/low wages Adequate income opportunities Poor access to social services Appropriate and adequate social services Racism and discrimination in society A societal climate that appreciates diversity and fosters inclusion Ineffective public policy Effective public policy

77. The Journey What do people need to make the journey from chronic poverty and dependency to sustainable well-being and prosperity? Poverty Prosperity jobs skills culture help healing connect ? support

78. Nine Lines of Action for Promoting Prosperity and Wellbeing

79. – 1 – Education and Training Day Break Star College United Indians Headstart and Early Headstart Literacy Family Strengthening Early childhood development Community Development Wellness Employment skills Leadership Development Cultural Foundations Entrepreneurial Development Job Readiness Strengthening Community Institutions And Programs Parenting Education Life Skills GED

81. – 3 – Cultural and Spiritual Revitalization Elders Council Drawing on Cultural Leaders Cultural Research Culturally based education and training Applying Cultural Knowledge to Development Problems Cultural events and gatherings Cultural based enterprises Culture

82. – 4 – Community Building Community involvement in program governance Community Learning and Planning Community-based Research and Evaluation Community Engagement in Strategic Action

89. Transdisciplinarity: Working beyond boundaries

93. Transdisciplinarity is a process and way of working that transcends the boundaries of contributing disciplines and generates new logical frameworks, new methodologies and new knowledge and insights from the synergy that is created between them. (Bopp 2001)

94. Case Example: Sagamok Anishnawbek First Nation

95. In 2001, with the support of the Aboriginal Healing Foundation, the Sagamok community committed itself to an intense period of reflection, learning & action designed to rebuild the health & prosperity of the Nation.

99. Individual, Family & Community Healing Cultural Research Community Healing Movement Professional Healing Team Crisis Inter- vention Team Families Elders Children Youth Women Men

102. Cross-Departmental Initiatives E.g. Comprehensive Youth Development Strategy Spiritual & Cultural Needs Parents, Churches, Cultural leaders Safety & Protection Needs Anishnawbek Police, Parents, Youth Council Healing & Wellness Needs Health & Social Services, Youth Council Learning Needs Parents, Education Dep’t & Partners Social Support Needs Health & Social Service, Parents, Youth Council Recreation Needs Youth Council & Mentor Team Economic & Employm’t Needs Saulteaux, Educat’n, Health Social Services Leadership Development Needs Chief & Council,, Ed Dep’t, Youth Council . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Youth Population . Youth Council

103. Working from Principle

104. A principle is a statement of truth. It describes the nature of things as they are, what is basic or essential, what works and what doesn’t, what must be included, and what cannot be left out. What is a principle?

111. Interconnectedness - Everything is connected to everything else. Therefore, any aspect of our healing and development is related to all the others (personal, social, cultural, political, 7. economic, etc.). When we work on any one part, the whole circle is affected.

112. No unity, no development - Unity means oneness. Without unity, the common oneness that makes (seemly) separate human beings into “community” is impossible. Disunity is the primary disease of community . 8.

113. No participation, no development - Participation is the active engagement of the minds, hearts and energy of the people in the process of their own healing and development. 9.

114. The hurt of one is the hurt of all; the honour of one is the honour of all - The basic fact of our oneness as a human family means that development 10. for some at the expense of wellbeing for others is not acceptable or sustainable.

115. Spirit - Human beings are both material and spiritual in nature. It is therefore inconceivable that human community could become whole and 11. sustainable without bringing our lives into balance with the requirements of our spiritual nature.

116. Morals and Ethics - Sustainable human and community development requires a moral foundation. When morals 12. decline and basic ethical principles are violated, development stops.

117. Learning - Human beings are learning beings. We begin learning 13. while we are still in our mothers’ wombs, and unless something happens to close off our minds and paralyze our capacities, we keep learning throughout our entire lives. Learning is at the core of healing and development.

118. Sustainability - To sustain something means to enable it to continue for a long time. Authentic 14. development does not use up or undermine what it needs to keep on going.

119. Move to the positive - Solving the critical problems in our lives and communities is best approached by visualizing and moving into the positive alternative that we wish to create, and by building on the strengths we already have, rather than on giving away our energy fighting the negative. 15.

120. Be the change you want to see - The most powerful strategies for change 16. always involve positive role modeling and the creation of living examples of the solution we are proposing. By walking the path, we make the path visible.

121. Case Example: A Global Perspective - Reunion of the Condor and Eagle

122. Reunion of the Condor & Eagle This initiative illustrates the translation of principles into practical global program action.

126. Condor and Eagle Framework: Four Key Lines of Action 1. Prosperity development 2. Capacity building 3. Governance and civil society development 4. Building appropriate partnerships and networks

131. Sustainable Vision, Values & Principles 4 Key Lines of Action Governance & Civil Society Development Capacity Building (Human & Community Development, Education & Training) Building Appropriate Partnerships & Networks Prosperity Development (Micro & Macro)

132. Condor and Eagle Framework: Required Processes 1. Listening & visioning 2. Participatory planning 3. Capacity building 4. Building systems & mechanisms for people-centered development

137. Sustainable Vision, Values & Principles Listening & Visioning System Building Capacity Building Participatory Planning Required Processes

138. Talking Circle Topic: How do the 3 key strategies for implementing sustainable development presented here (i.e.; systems thinking, transdiscip-linarity, working from principle) apply to your work? What did you learn from the case examples?

139. Module IV: Leading Sustainable Development

141. Values Based A value is a relatively enduring pattern of thinking & action. Not all values are equal. Some lead to life. Others lead to death.

142. Leadership for sustainable development is driven by values that are life-preserving and life-enhancing. “ In every deliberation we must consider the impact of our decisions on the next seven generations. ” (From the Great Law of the Iroquois Confederacy)

143. Principle Centered A principle is a statement of truth. It describes the nature of things as they are, what is basic or essential, what works and what doesn’t, what must be included, and what cannot be left out.

144. The essential merit of…principle is that it not only presents a perspective which harmonizes with that which is immanent in human nature, it also induces an attitude, a dynamic, a will, an aspiration, which facilitate the discovery and implementation of practical measures. (“The Promise of World Peace”)

145. Principle-centered leadership organizes thinking & action according to fundamental principles. E.g. The principle of equity reminds us that d evelopment is not sustainable if the political decisions & economic activities of some groups of people continue to jeopardize the wellbeing of people belonging to other groups or living in other parts of the world.

146. Collaborative Collaborate: to work together, especially in a joint intellectual or artistic effort. (The Tormont Webster’s Illustrated Dictionary)

147. The challenge of sustainable develop-ment is like a puzzle. Different stakeholders hold different pieces and no one has the whole picture or even knows what the whole picture is.

148. Collaborative leadership for sustainable development creates a holding environment for joint work across lines (disciplines, cultures, power differentials, norms & values, economic & social interests, roles)

152. Learning driven Three kinds of problems: 1. Simple - following a recipe (e.g. baking a cake) Source: Westley, Zimmerman & Paton,“Getting to Maybe” Random House,2006

153. Three kinds of problems cont’d: 2. Complicated - e.g. sending a rocket ship to the moon 3. Complex - e.g. raising a child, ending AIDS in South Africa

154. Sustainable development has all three kinds of problems contained within it. Part of the work can be achieved through the application of simple and complex recipes. A great deal of the work, however, is complex. We will need to “make the path by walking it”.

156. Action Reflection Learning Values & Principles Planning

157. Does Canada have the Potential to Lead Sustainable Development Thinking & Action in the world? Q :

158. Talking Circle Topic: What will you take away from this explor-ation of the characteristics required to lead sustainable development work? What are the opportunities & constraints you face in responding to this challenge?