The document provides an introduction to sustainability, including: - Definitions of sustainability from various perspectives focusing on meeting needs over time without depleting resources. - Challenges to sustainability such as water scarcity, pollution, climate change, and fossil fuel dependency. - A systems view of life emphasizing interconnection and considering impacts over time. - Principles of sustainability including balance, equity, and stewardship of natural systems for future generations. - Visions for sustainability exemplified by frameworks like One Planet Living centered on ecological integrity, social inclusion, and economic justice.

1. Introduction to Sustainability
Soc Trang, 25.10.2013

2. Seite 2
Implemented byImplemented by
03.07.2014
 What does Sustainability mean?
 Challenges to Sustainability
 Systems View of Life
 Principles for Sustainability
 Sustainability Visions
Outline

3. Seite 3
Implemented byImplemented by
03.07.2014
• “Enough for everyone, forever.”
• “Living in such a way that we minimize our negative impact on the earth
and the people we share it with, doing our best to preserve the world in
its healthiest form for future generations.”
• “What I think of is very basic. Survival. Take only what you need, then let
it replenish/regrow at a rate that keeps the source producing so that it
can be taken again without depleting it completely.”
• “I think sustainability is about living and acting according to 'human-based'
values. This involves considering the long-term consequences of
every action and the ability to look at the big picture.”
• “I’m not really crazy about the word sustainability. It means things stay
the same. I like the idea of things thriving. Since we don’t have a good
word for that, we use sustainability.” Daryl Hannah
What does Sustainability mean to you?

4. Seite 4
Implemented byImplemented by
03.07.2014

5. Seite 5
Implemented byImplemented by
03.07.2014

6. Seite 6
Implemented byImplemented by
What human needs are?
03.07.2014
Maslow’s hierachy of
human needs
Max-Neefs’s fundamental
human needs

7. Seite 7
Implemented byImplemented by
Sustainability explanation (Video)
03.07.2014

8. Seite 8
Implemented byImplemented by
03.07.2014
Challenges to Sustainability

9. Seite 9
Implemented byImplemented by
03.07.2014
Where do we go from here? (Video)

10. Seite 10
Implemented byImplemented by
03.07.2014

11. Seite 11
Implemented by
11

12. Seite 12
Implemented byImplemented by
03.07.2014
Water scarcity

13. Seite 13
Implemented byImplemented by
03.07.2014

14. Seite 14
Implemented byImplemented by
03.07.2014

15. Seite 15
Implemented byImplemented by
03.07.2014
Deforestation &
Natural Resource Exploitation

16. Seite 16
Implemented byImplemented by
Urbanization
03.07.2014

17. Seite 17
Implemented byImplemented by
03.07.2014

18. Seite 18
Implemented by

19. Seite 19
Implemented byImplemented by
03.07.2014

20. Seite 20
Implemented byImplemented by
Pollution
03.07.2014

21. Seite 21
Implemented byImplemented by
03.07.2014

22. Seite 22
Implemented byImplemented by
Climate Change
03.07.2014

23. Seite 23
Implemented byImplemented by
Current Energy Issues
03.07.2014
Source: REN21: Renewables 2012 Global Status Repor

24. Seite 24
Implemented byImplemented by
03.07.2014

25. Seite 25
Implemented byImplemented by
Fossil fuel related issues
03.07.2014
• Resource depletion
• Environmental pollution
• Climate change

26. Seite 26
Implemented byImplemented by
Nuclear power related issues
03.07.2014
• Safety of operation
• Plant decommissioning
• Radioactive wastes
disposal
• Thermal pollution
• Threat of nuclear
weapons
• Uranium is a finite
resource

27. Seite 27
Implemented by
Conventional uranium mining has
caused dust and radon inhalation by
workers, resulting in high rates of
lung cancer and other diseases, and
mining has caused serious
contamination of groundwater.
03.07.2014

28. Seite 28
Implemented byImplemented by
03.07.2014

29. Seite 29
Implemented by
Global Peace Index (Video)
03.07.2014

30. Seite 30
Implemented by
03.07.2014

31. Seite 31
Implemented byImplemented by
03.07.2014

32. Seite 32
Implemented byImplemented by
03.07.2014
“Every issue is connected
to all the others.”

33. Seite 33
Implemented byImplemented by
03.07.2014

34. Seite 34
Implemented byImplemented by
03.07.2014
“In order to understand what’s behind our sustainability
challenges, we need to step back and look at the big picture,
see the connections, identify the root causes of our problems
and find the leverage points for change.” (Baxter et al. 2009).

35. Seite 35
Implemented byImplemented by
03.07.2014
Systems View of Life

36. Seite 36
Implemented byImplemented by
All is One – Our interconnection
& interdependence
03.07.2014
• Life itself is made up of
complex and interdependent
systems.
• When one key element of a
system in our lives changes, it
simultaneously affects many
other elements in our lives.
• Unity through Diversity
“We are merely a strand in the web of life.
Whatever we do to the web, we do to ourselves”

37. Seite 37
Implemented byImplemented by
Why is systems thinking valuable?
03.07.2014
• Systems thinking is founded on some basic,
universal principles.
• It can help you design smart, enduring solutions
to problems.
• It gives you a more accurate picture of reality.
• It also encourages you to think about problems
and solutions with an eye toward the long-term
and bigger view.

38. Seite 38
Implemented byImplemented by
03.07.2014
We sometimes fix on our part
of the system,
and miss the whole.
The whole is not
sum of the parts.

39. Seite 39
Implemented byImplemented by
03.07.2014
The solution of one
problem may cause
another problem
(unintended results).

40. Seite 40
Implemented byImplemented by
03.07.2014
We may act to produce short-term benefits
and long-term costs.

41. Seite 41
Implemented byImplemented by
Then, systems thinking help us…
03.07.2014
• to see “cause and effect” over long periods of time and
far away in space, (avoid actions that are favorable
now and harmful later).
• to recognize solutions that will cause more problems.
• to see the ”whole”.
• to find the powerful
leverage points for
systemic change.

42. Seite 42
Implemented byImplemented by
Systems thinking is…
03.07.2014
• Environment or ”contextual” thinking: thinking in terms
of connectedness, relationships and context.
• Network thinking: emphasizes on the relationships
among objects more than separate objects themselves.
Small catalytic events can cause large change in a system.
Systems thinking promotes organizational communication
at all levels.
• Process thinking: focuses on processes more than
outcomes as a way of managing. Every structure is seen
as the manifestation of underlying processes. If we want to
change the results, we must first change the process that
led to the results.

43. Seite 43
Implemented byImplemented by
Systems thinking
03.07.2014
Moves the focus away from events and patterns of
behavior (which are symptoms of problems) and
toward systemic structure and the underlying mental
models.
• Holistic thinking: widens the circle of understanding
to comprehend connections that exist between all
things.  A strategy for handling complexity.
• Backward thinking: involves testing assumptions
and asking many questions to get to the root of the
problem.  A core of where to start in systems
thinking.

44. Seite 44
Implemented byImplemented by
Dancing with Systems
03.07.2014
• Expand the boundary of caring. The
real system is interconnected. No
part of the human race is separate
either from other human beings or
from the global ecosystem.
• Think from the perspective of the
whole system rather than the
individual.

45. Seite 45
Implemented byImplemented by
Systems Intelligence in Everyday Life
03.07.2014
A philosophy of life, a way out of egocentricity.
→ Systems approach starts when you see the world
through the eyes of another person.
* Appreciation * No judgements * Interest
* Humor * Listening * Thanking
* Encouragement * Friendliness
 Live a more satisfying and effective life.
 Better able to deal with the growing complexity of
modern society.

46. Seite 46
Implemented by
“To see a world in a grain of sand,
And a heaven in a wild flower,
Hold infinity in the palm of your hand,
And eternity in an hour.”
William Blake

47. Seite 47
Implemented byImplemented by
03.07.2014
Sustainability Visions
Principles for Sustainability

48. Seite 48
Implemented byImplemented by
Principles for Sustainability
03.07.2014
• Sustainability literally means the capacity to endure
over time.
• Sustainability refers to what is of true values, what is
good, genuine and resilient, which can stand the test
of time.
• Sustainability associates with balance and equity in
a comprehensive approach, which acknowledges our
dependence on the health of natural systems for our
survival and well-being, the limit carrying capacity of
the Earth and the detrimental impact of unchecked
human activities.

49. Seite 49
Implemented byImplemented by
Principles for Sustainability – Balance & Equity
03.07.2014
Sustainability strives for balance
among the interconnected
ecological, economic and
social systems.
Sustainability requires a long
term, intergenerational
perspective.
Equity should be maintained, not
only across communities within
generation but also between
generations.

50. Seite 50
Implemented byImplemented by
Principles for Sustainability - Systems Thinking
03.07.2014
• Appreciation of Nature as a symbol of
Integrity, Stability and Beauty.
• Celebrate Complexity and respect
Diversity
• At the system level, the overwhelming force
in nature is cooperation (symbiosis), not
competition.
• Caring for the whole mostly means caring for future
generations – for our children.
• See the big picture – to understand and act upon the
interconnectedness of all things – to operate in harmony
with others and with nature.

51. Seite 51
Implemented byImplemented by
Principles for Sustainability – The Earth Charter
03.07.2014
 The Earth Charter is a global consensus, a
product of a decade-long, worldwide, cross-
cultural dialogue on common goals and
shared values.
 As “a vision of hope and a call to action”, it
provides us with inspiration and guidance to
a sustainable future.
 In October 2003, UNESCO adopted a
resolution recognizing the Earth Charter as
an important ethical framework for
sustainability.
www.earthcharterinaction.org

52. Seite 52
Implemented byImplemented by
Principles for Sustainability – The Earth Charter
03.07.2014

53. Seite 53
Implemented byImplemented by
Principles for Sustainability – The Earth Charter
03.07.2014
 Respect and Care for the Community of Life
 To respect Earth and life in all its diversity;
 To care for the community of life with understanding,
compassion and love;
 To build democratic societies that are just,
sustainable, participatory and peaceful; and
 To secure Earth's bounty and beauty for present and
future generations.

54. Seite 54
Implemented byImplemented by
Principles for Sustainability - Spiritual Values
03.07.2014
• Spiritual values are essential as an inner
guiding light which helps us to develop our
worldview, to seek wisdom of truth and
wholeness, to find meaning of our existence
and to connect with a greater transcendent
reality.
• Spiritual connection is the basis for love,
compassion and community. Our desire to
deeply connect can be the most powerful
force for good.
“Justice and compassion spring from the hearts of people who
recognize our profound interdependence and interrelatedness
with one another and the Earth” (Lamborn).

55. Seite 55
Implemented byImplemented by
Principles for Sustainability - Spiritual Values
XXX03.07.2014
• The virtues of justice, humility, service
and compassion can motivate us to
address our social and environmental
challenges and to build a world of
peace and harmony.
• Creating a culture of sustainability
which cherishes those values of
tolerance, love, care, respect… is
essential in empowering and
transforming community towards a
sustainable future.

56. Seite 56
Implemented byImplemented by
Dimensions of Sustainability
03.07.2014
Ecological
balance
Cultural
vitality
Social
inclusion
Low-carbon
economy
Good
Governance
Social and
Economic
Justice
Ecological
Integrity
Democracy,
Nonviolence,
and Peace

57. Seite 57
Implemented byImplemented by
03.07.2014
Sustainability Visions

58. Seite 58
Implemented byImplemented by
One Planet Living
03.07.2014
• A global initiative developed by BioRegional and WWF
• A practical vision that help us to focus on how we can
take action for a sustainable future.
www.oneplanetliving.org

59. Seite 59
Implemented byImplemented by
One Planet Living – 10 Guiding Principles
03.07.2014

60. Seite 60
Implemented byImplemented by
One Planet Living – 10 Guiding Principles
03.07.2014

61. Seite 61
Implemented byImplemented by
Social Inclusion and Cultural Vitality
03.07.2014
Social and cultural intertwined dimensions of sustainability

62. Seite 62
Implemented byImplemented by
Good Governance
03.07.2014

63. Seite 63
Implemented byImplemented by
03.07.2014
Good
Governance
Accountable
Transparent
Responsive
Equitable
&
Inclusive
Effective
&
Efficient
Follows the
rule of law
Participatory
Consensus
oriented
(Source: UNESCAP)
Key attributes of
good governance

64. Seite 64
Implemented byImplemented by
Economic Development
03.07.2014
“It’s business as usual that’s the utopian fantasy, while
creating something very new and different is the
pragmatic way forward.” James Gustave Speth
The proper purpose of an economy is to secure just,
sustainable, and joyful livelihoods for all (David Kosten).
A humane economy: social responsible enterprises
which have safe working conditions for labours,
reasonable working time, holidays and decent wages.
A green economy: green business with environmental
consciousness, energy and resource saving, using
renewable energies, local and natural materials.

65. Seite 65
Implemented byImplemented by
A Green Economy (UNEP)
03.07.2014
• recognizes the value of, and invests in, Natural Capital.
• creates jobs and enhances social equity.
• substitutes renewable energy and low-carbon
technologies for fossil fuels.
• promotes enhanced resource and energy efficiency.
• delivers more sustainable urban living and low-carbon
mobility

66. Seite 66
Implemented byImplemented by
The Circular Economy
03.07.2014
An open, linear and unsustainable system
A regenerative
system with circular
metabolism

67. Seite 67
Implemented byImplemented by
Ex: Water sensitive design (Video)
03.07.2014

68. Seite 68
Implemented byImplemented by
The Circular Economy (Video)
03.07.2014

69. Seite 69
Implemented byImplemented by
Towards a low-carbon economy
XXX03.07.2014
Shifting to low-carbon economy means shifting to more diversified
systems which maximize the use of locally available,
environmental friendly resources.
Principles for a low-carbon society (Japanese MOE, 2007)
 Carbon minimization in all sectors
 Shifting from mass consumption society toward simpler
lifestyles that realize richer quality of life
 Coexistence with Nature - maintaining and restoring
natural environment
3 key sectors: transportation & urban structure, energy and
greenery

70. Seite 70
Implemented byImplemented by
Towards a low-carbon economy
03.07.2014
Reducing energy waste (conservation)
Improving energy efficiency
Using renewable energy
Zero emission home
(ZED and METI)

71. Seite 71
Implemented byImplemented by
Towards a low-carbon economy
03.07.2014
Benefits of a low-carbon
transport system

72. Seite 72
Implemented byImplemented by
XXX03.07.2014
Cycling in Copenhagen (Liveable Copenhagen and more)

73. Seite 73
Implemented byImplemented by
Ex: Sustainable Transport (Video)
03.07.2014

74. Seite 74
Implemented byImplemented by
Ex: ICT application for a low-carbon city
03.07.2014
SMART
&
CONNECTED
CITY
E-
Government E-
Commerce
E-Health
E-Services
Online
Media
Smart
LogisticsSmart
Buildings
Smart
Grids
Teleworking
Paperless
office
E-learning

75. Seite 75
Implemented byImplemented by
The New Sharing Economy (Video)
03.07.2014

76. Seite 76
Implemented byImplemented by
Building the Sharing Economy (Video)
03.07.2014

77. Seite 77
Implemented byImplemented by
Collaborative Consumption (Video)
03.07.2014

78. Seite 78
Implemented byImplemented by
03.07.2014

79. Seite 79
Implemented byImplemented by
The Story of Solutions (Video)
03.07.2014

80. Seite 80
Implemented byImplemented by
03.07.2014
• Annie Leohard – The Story of Stuff Series http://storyofstuff.org
• Center for a New American Dream – Community Action Kits, Guide to Going Local and Guide to Sharing
www.newdream.org/communityactionkit
• Center for Ecoliteracy, Designing a resilient community, Learning in the Real World, 2013
• CIRCLE-2, Adaptation Inspiration Book, 2012
• CIRIA – Water Sensitive Urban Design in the UK, 2013
• Climate Change – Cities in Action
• Dream of a Nation, 2013 http://dreamofanation.org/
• IEA – A Tale of Renewed Cities, 2013 www.iea.org/tale-of-renewed-cities
• Stephanie Draper, Creating the big shift: Systems Innovation for Sustainability, Forum for the Future, 2013
• Jonathan Tomkin, University of Illinois, Introduction to Sustainability, Online Course on Coursera www.coursera.org, 2012
• Monika Dittrich, Green economies around the world? Implications of resource use for development and the environment,
SERI, 2012
• On the Commons http://onthecommons.org
• Sustainability – Learn It – Live It http://css.snre.umich.edu/facts/index.html
• Sustainable Schools www.teachernet.gov.uk/sustainableschools
• Sustainable Summer School www.sustainable-summer-school.org
• SUSTAINIA 100 www.sustainia.me/solutions
• The Sharing Solution http://sharingsolution.com
• Time Bank http://timebanks.org
• Tom Theis & Jonathan Tomkin (Ed.), Sustainability – A Comprehensive Foundation, Connexions, 2012
http://cnx.org/content/col11325/1.38
• World Bank – Building Sustainability in an Urbanizing World, 2013
• World Bank – Inclusive Green Growth – Path way to sustainable development, 2012
• World Bank – Sustainable Energy for All www.sustainableenergyforall.org
• World Bank – Urban Agriculture – Findings from the Four City Case Studies, 2013
• Dancing With Systems, Donella Meadows, 2001.
• Systems Intelligence, Raimo P. Hämäläinen and Esa Saarinen.
• Systems Thinking Introduction, presentation by John M. Gerber, 2007
• The Turning Point (1982), The Web of Life (1996) by Fritjof Capra,
References

81. Seite 81
Implemented by
Together, we build!