A presentation to the Sustainability Across the Curriculum Workshop at Saint Mary's University, May 12, 2010
Prepared and Presented by: Dr. Cathy Conrad, Geography, Teaching Scholar 2010-2011
Presentation at a Working Group with young people in London, on Education for Sustainable Development, during the London +20 event, on the 5th June 2012
A presentation to the Sustainability Across the Curriculum Workshop at Saint Mary's University, May 12, 2010
Prepared and Presented by: Dr. Cathy Conrad, Geography, Teaching Scholar 2010-2011
Presentation at a Working Group with young people in London, on Education for Sustainable Development, during the London +20 event, on the 5th June 2012
Practical Universal Design seminar slides Jan 2020 Karen Dunne
Practical Universal Design for Educators seminar in association with Dundalk Institute of Technology (DkIT) and the National Forum for the Enhancement of Teaching and Learning in Higher Education, Ireland. Jan 15 2020.
Practical Universal Design handout 1 slide per pageKaren Dunne
Slides handout: layout 1 slide per page. From the Practical Universal Design for Educators seminar in association with Dundalk Institute of Technology (DkIT) and the National Forum for the Enhancement of Teaching and Learning in Higher Education, Ireland. Jan 15 2020.
Education For Sustainable Development London4 All of Us
This conference brought together educationalists, NGOs, Estate Directors and employers to promote and share good subject based and interdisciplinary practice across a wide range of areas, from both the natural sciences and the social sciences. It also showcased ideas and projects from leading NGOs and businesses which are working towards sustainability goals.
Practical Universal Design handout 4 slides per pageKaren Dunne
Slides handout: layout 4 slides per page. From the Practical Universal Design for Educators seminar in association with Dundalk Institute of Technology (DkIT) and the National Forum for the Enhancement of Teaching and Learning in Higher Education, Ireland. Jan 15 2020.
Environmental Education for all: Ethiopian ContextIJEAB
Today’s environmental challenges urge man to search for possible solution from wider viewpoints. This paper review is persuasive that it stresses relevance of environmental education for all citizens as one of the key tools for stewardship of environmental wellbeing besides policies and actions combating against environmental problems like pollutions and environmental degradation; believing that environmental education can pose positive change in attitude and behavior of society that in turn probably support efforts done towards sustainable development. The paper also attempt to discuss rationale of this review paper, interactions between man and environment, meaning and aims of environmental education, environmental pollution, climate change, pressure on biological diversity, desertification and drought, population growth and resource use, population growth and environment, dimensions and approaches of environmental education. Developing environmental literacy- knowledge, skill, attitude and actions on current environmental challenges particularly like climate change, loss of biodiversity, health problems and suggested solutions of these problems are need commitment to be addressed. Hence, environmentally literate citizens make informed environmentally sound decisions. Further, suitable approach of delivering environmental education, for all learners, in schools or higher institutions probably is generic form.
Challenges teachers face in the integration of Environmental Education into t...AJHSSR Journal
ABSTRACT: This study focuses on the integration of environmental education into other subjects in the
school curriculum. The study critically examine challenges faced by various subject teachers in the process of
teaching environmental education as an integrated component in their subject areas. The role of teachers in the
implementation of environmental education in developing an environmentally literate citizenry is of great
significance. It was recommended among others that, the government should develop curriculum with clear
goals and content with specific guideline which shall develop teachers’ capacity in the teaching of
environmental education. Successful implementation of any educational policy, largely depends on teacher’s
competencies. Therefore all necessary steps should be taken to address challenges confronting teachers in the
implementation of EE as an integrated component.
KEY TERMS: Environmental education, integration, curriculum
Practical Universal Design seminar slides Jan 2020 Karen Dunne
Practical Universal Design for Educators seminar in association with Dundalk Institute of Technology (DkIT) and the National Forum for the Enhancement of Teaching and Learning in Higher Education, Ireland. Jan 15 2020.
Practical Universal Design handout 1 slide per pageKaren Dunne
Slides handout: layout 1 slide per page. From the Practical Universal Design for Educators seminar in association with Dundalk Institute of Technology (DkIT) and the National Forum for the Enhancement of Teaching and Learning in Higher Education, Ireland. Jan 15 2020.
Education For Sustainable Development London4 All of Us
This conference brought together educationalists, NGOs, Estate Directors and employers to promote and share good subject based and interdisciplinary practice across a wide range of areas, from both the natural sciences and the social sciences. It also showcased ideas and projects from leading NGOs and businesses which are working towards sustainability goals.
Practical Universal Design handout 4 slides per pageKaren Dunne
Slides handout: layout 4 slides per page. From the Practical Universal Design for Educators seminar in association with Dundalk Institute of Technology (DkIT) and the National Forum for the Enhancement of Teaching and Learning in Higher Education, Ireland. Jan 15 2020.
Environmental Education for all: Ethiopian ContextIJEAB
Today’s environmental challenges urge man to search for possible solution from wider viewpoints. This paper review is persuasive that it stresses relevance of environmental education for all citizens as one of the key tools for stewardship of environmental wellbeing besides policies and actions combating against environmental problems like pollutions and environmental degradation; believing that environmental education can pose positive change in attitude and behavior of society that in turn probably support efforts done towards sustainable development. The paper also attempt to discuss rationale of this review paper, interactions between man and environment, meaning and aims of environmental education, environmental pollution, climate change, pressure on biological diversity, desertification and drought, population growth and resource use, population growth and environment, dimensions and approaches of environmental education. Developing environmental literacy- knowledge, skill, attitude and actions on current environmental challenges particularly like climate change, loss of biodiversity, health problems and suggested solutions of these problems are need commitment to be addressed. Hence, environmentally literate citizens make informed environmentally sound decisions. Further, suitable approach of delivering environmental education, for all learners, in schools or higher institutions probably is generic form.
Challenges teachers face in the integration of Environmental Education into t...AJHSSR Journal
ABSTRACT: This study focuses on the integration of environmental education into other subjects in the
school curriculum. The study critically examine challenges faced by various subject teachers in the process of
teaching environmental education as an integrated component in their subject areas. The role of teachers in the
implementation of environmental education in developing an environmentally literate citizenry is of great
significance. It was recommended among others that, the government should develop curriculum with clear
goals and content with specific guideline which shall develop teachers’ capacity in the teaching of
environmental education. Successful implementation of any educational policy, largely depends on teacher’s
competencies. Therefore all necessary steps should be taken to address challenges confronting teachers in the
implementation of EE as an integrated component.
KEY TERMS: Environmental education, integration, curriculum
The traditional festival of the Chinese folks most impressive and the most full of special features is Chinese New Year( the Spring Festival), it symbolizes the lunar calendar for old year to end
Simple Ways To Be A Better Programmer (OSCON 2007)Michael Schwern
"Simple Ways To Be A Better Programmer' as presented at OSCON 2007 by Michael G Schwern.
The audio is still out of sync, working on it. Downloading will be available once the sync is done.
A Curriculum Model to Underpin Education for Sustainable DevelopmentESCalate
This is an enquiry-based model that addresses the cognitive, affective and action domains. It is illustrated by children in a Devon primary school who “identified a real issue that concerned them”.
Environmental education is a process that allows individuals to explore environmental issues, engage in problem solving, and take action to improve the environment. As a result, individuals develop a deeper understanding of environmental issues and have the skills to make informed and responsible decisions.
The components of environmental education are:PEYA winner and water monitor examining a snake
Awareness and sensitivity to the environment and environmental challenges
Knowledge and understanding of the environment and environmental challenges
Attitudes of concern for the environment and motivation to improve or maintain environmental quality
Skills to identify and help resolve environmental challenges
Participation in activities that lead to the resolution of environmental challenges
Environmental education does not advocate a particular viewpoint or course of action. Rather, environmental education teaches individuals how to weigh various sides of an issue through critical thinking and it enhances their own problem-solving and decision-making skills.
Willie Nelson Net Worth: A Journey Through Music, Movies, and Business Venturesgreendigital
Willie Nelson is a name that resonates within the world of music and entertainment. Known for his unique voice, and masterful guitar skills. and an extraordinary career spanning several decades. Nelson has become a legend in the country music scene. But, his influence extends far beyond the realm of music. with ventures in acting, writing, activism, and business. This comprehensive article delves into Willie Nelson net worth. exploring the various facets of his career that have contributed to his large fortune.
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Introduction
Willie Nelson net worth is a testament to his enduring influence and success in many fields. Born on April 29, 1933, in Abbott, Texas. Nelson's journey from a humble beginning to becoming one of the most iconic figures in American music is nothing short of inspirational. His net worth, which estimated to be around $25 million as of 2024. reflects a career that is as diverse as it is prolific.
Early Life and Musical Beginnings
Humble Origins
Willie Hugh Nelson was born during the Great Depression. a time of significant economic hardship in the United States. Raised by his grandparents. Nelson found solace and inspiration in music from an early age. His grandmother taught him to play the guitar. setting the stage for what would become an illustrious career.
First Steps in Music
Nelson's initial foray into the music industry was fraught with challenges. He moved to Nashville, Tennessee, to pursue his dreams, but success did not come . Working as a songwriter, Nelson penned hits for other artists. which helped him gain a foothold in the competitive music scene. His songwriting skills contributed to his early earnings. laying the foundation for his net worth.
Rise to Stardom
Breakthrough Albums
The 1970s marked a turning point in Willie Nelson's career. His albums "Shotgun Willie" (1973), "Red Headed Stranger" (1975). and "Stardust" (1978) received critical acclaim and commercial success. These albums not only solidified his position in the country music genre. but also introduced his music to a broader audience. The success of these albums played a crucial role in boosting Willie Nelson net worth.
Iconic Songs
Willie Nelson net worth is also attributed to his extensive catalog of hit songs. Tracks like "Blue Eyes Crying in the Rain," "On the Road Again," and "Always on My Mind" have become timeless classics. These songs have not only earned Nelson large royalties but have also ensured his continued relevance in the music industry.
Acting and Film Career
Hollywood Ventures
In addition to his music career, Willie Nelson has also made a mark in Hollywood. His distinctive personality and on-screen presence have landed him roles in several films and television shows. Notable appearances include roles in "The Electric Horseman" (1979), "Honeysuckle Rose" (1980), and "Barbarosa" (1982). These acting gigs have added a significant amount to Willie Nelson net worth.
Television Appearances
Nelson's char
WRI’s brand new “Food Service Playbook for Promoting Sustainable Food Choices” gives food service operators the very latest strategies for creating dining environments that empower consumers to choose sustainable, plant-rich dishes. This research builds off our first guide for food service, now with industry experience and insights from nearly 350 academic trials.
Diabetes is a rapidly and serious health problem in Pakistan. This chronic condition is associated with serious long-term complications, including higher risk of heart disease and stroke. Aggressive treatment of hypertension and hyperlipideamia can result in a substantial reduction in cardiovascular events in patients with diabetes 1. Consequently pharmacist-led diabetes cardiovascular risk (DCVR) clinics have been established in both primary and secondary care sites in NHS Lothian during the past five years. An audit of the pharmaceutical care delivery at the clinics was conducted in order to evaluate practice and to standardize the pharmacists’ documentation of outcomes. Pharmaceutical care issues (PCI) and patient details were collected both prospectively and retrospectively from three DCVR clinics. The PCI`s were categorized according to a triangularised system consisting of multiple categories. These were ‘checks’, ‘changes’ (‘change in drug therapy process’ and ‘change in drug therapy’), ‘drug therapy problems’ and ‘quality assurance descriptors’ (‘timer perspective’ and ‘degree of change’). A verified medication assessment tool (MAT) for patients with chronic cardiovascular disease was applied to the patients from one of the clinics. The tool was used to quantify PCI`s and pharmacist actions that were centered on implementing or enforcing clinical guideline standards. A database was developed to be used as an assessment tool and to standardize the documentation of achievement of outcomes. Feedback on the audit of the pharmaceutical care delivery and the database was received from the DCVR clinic pharmacist at a focus group meeting.
Natural farming @ Dr. Siddhartha S. Jena.pptxsidjena70
A brief about organic farming/ Natural farming/ Zero budget natural farming/ Subash Palekar Natural farming which keeps us and environment safe and healthy. Next gen Agricultural practices of chemical free farming.
UNDERSTANDING WHAT GREEN WASHING IS!.pdfJulietMogola
Many companies today use green washing to lure the public into thinking they are conserving the environment but in real sense they are doing more harm. There have been such several cases from very big companies here in Kenya and also globally. This ranges from various sectors from manufacturing and goes to consumer products. Educating people on greenwashing will enable people to make better choices based on their analysis and not on what they see on marketing sites.
Characterization and the Kinetics of drying at the drying oven and with micro...Open Access Research Paper
The objective of this work is to contribute to valorization de Nephelium lappaceum by the characterization of kinetics of drying of seeds of Nephelium lappaceum. The seeds were dehydrated until a constant mass respectively in a drying oven and a microwawe oven. The temperatures and the powers of drying are respectively: 50, 60 and 70°C and 140, 280 and 420 W. The results show that the curves of drying of seeds of Nephelium lappaceum do not present a phase of constant kinetics. The coefficients of diffusion vary between 2.09.10-8 to 2.98. 10-8m-2/s in the interval of 50°C at 70°C and between 4.83×10-07 at 9.04×10-07 m-8/s for the powers going of 140 W with 420 W the relation between Arrhenius and a value of energy of activation of 16.49 kJ. mol-1 expressed the effect of the temperature on effective diffusivity.
Micro RNA genes and their likely influence in rice (Oryza sativa L.) dynamic ...Open Access Research Paper
Micro RNAs (miRNAs) are small non-coding RNAs molecules having approximately 18-25 nucleotides, they are present in both plants and animals genomes. MiRNAs have diverse spatial expression patterns and regulate various developmental metabolisms, stress responses and other physiological processes. The dynamic gene expression playing major roles in phenotypic differences in organisms are believed to be controlled by miRNAs. Mutations in regions of regulatory factors, such as miRNA genes or transcription factors (TF) necessitated by dynamic environmental factors or pathogen infections, have tremendous effects on structure and expression of genes. The resultant novel gene products presents potential explanations for constant evolving desirable traits that have long been bred using conventional means, biotechnology or genetic engineering. Rice grain quality, yield, disease tolerance, climate-resilience and palatability properties are not exceptional to miRN Asmutations effects. There are new insights courtesy of high-throughput sequencing and improved proteomic techniques that organisms’ complexity and adaptations are highly contributed by miRNAs containing regulatory networks. This article aims to expound on how rice miRNAs could be driving evolution of traits and highlight the latest miRNA research progress. Moreover, the review accentuates miRNAs grey areas to be addressed and gives recommendations for further studies.
Micro RNA genes and their likely influence in rice (Oryza sativa L.) dynamic ...
Lesson 1: Course Introduction / Sustainability & Systems Thinking
1. John W. Eppensteiner III
Master of Environmental Studies
University of Pennsylvania
Teaching and Preaching Sustainability and Social Justice:
A Resource for Catholic High School Teachers
Lesson 1: Course Introduction / Sustainability & Systems Thinking
Grade Level: 11-12 Class Size: Approx. 20 students
Time: 50 mins Setting: Classroom
Background Information:
One of the most important concepts to grasp when learning about sustainability is that all of our actions have
consequences because we all exist within the same “system” – Planet Earth. Many of the impacts we have on our
planetary systems are the indirect result of our everyday actions. This course is designed to help students fully
appreciate these consequences in an attempt to help shape a more sustainable future.
Guiding Questions:
• How do the decisions I make, both consciously and unconsciously, impact the rest of life on Earth, both directly
and indirectly?
Learning Objectives: As a result of this lesson, students will be able to...
• Define sustainability in their own words.
• Describe the four skills essential for practicing sustainability.
• Describe how a “systems analysis” is conducted.
Vocabulary:
• Commons
• Sustainability
• Systems Thinking
• Proxies
Personal Exploration Questions:
1. What “proxies” do I employ to live the way I do?
Suggested Assignments
Activity / Homework
1. Conduct a systems analysis for a common household food item (i.e., popcorn, ice cream). Describe the energy
and material inputs, outputs, and pathways over the entire life-cycle of the product – from production to end
use. This can take the form of a diagram or drawing.
2. Resources:
Reference Documents
• Cloutier, David. Walking God's Earth: The Environment and Catholic Faith. Liturgical Press, 2014.
• Hardin, Garrett. "The tragedy of the commons." science 162.3859 (1968): 1243-1248
• Segalàs, Jordi, Karel F. Mulder, and Didac Ferrer-Balas. "What do EESD “experts” think sustainability is? Which
pedagogy is suitable to learn it? Results from interviews and Cmaps analysis gathered at EESD 2008."
International Journal of Sustainability in Higher Education 13, no. 3 (2012): 293-304
• Wiek, Arnim, Lauren Withycombe, and Charles L. Redman. "Key competencies in sustainability: a reference
framework for academic program development.“ Sustainability Science 6.2 (2011): 203-218.
Systems Thinking
• Arizona State University: Sustainability Science Education -
http://sustainabilityscienceeducation.asu.edu/course/sustainability-competencies/systems-thinking/
3. Teaching and Preaching
Sustainability and Social Justice:
A Resource for Catholic High School
Teachers
Developed By:
John W. Eppensteiner III
Master of Environmental Studies
University of Pennsylvania
Graduation: Spring 2015
1
4. 2
Resource Overview
• This resource provides a framework that Catholic high school teachers can use to
deliver a semester-long class on the concept of sustainability, emphasizing the
moral imperative to act. It is designed to impart an understanding of current and
future environmental issues and the implications those issues have on human
health and well-being. It is intended that the class be taught one day per week
over the period of one semester, with the primary audience being high school
juniors or seniors.
• The resource provides fifteen lessons that cover the main themes in
environmental and social sustainability. The thematic areas include: systems
thinking; global changes; water, food, and energy systems; consumption and
waste; biodiversity; ecological economics; corporate responsibility; effective
communications; innovations in sustainability; and personal impact and
leadership.
• Each lesson includes a lesson plan – which provides an overview of the topic,
guiding questions, learning objectives, suggested assignments, and resources –
and PowerPoint slides – which allows the presenter to cover the selected topic in a
fifty minute class period.
• The resource also suggests projects that students can undertake to support their
learning of the subject matter. These projects, referred to as Capstones, are a way
for students to demonstrate their passions and professional promise, while having
a concrete impact on the advancement of sustainability.
5. Course Design
• Lesson 1 – Course Introduction
– Course Overview
– Capstone Projects
– The Global Commons and Sustainability
– Systems Thinking
• Lesson 2 – Global Changes
– Population Growth
– The Basics of Climate Change
– Impacts of Climate Change
• Lesson 3 – Sustainability and the Catholic Identity
– The Catholic Worldview
– The Moral Imperative
– Religion and Ecology
– Uniting for Sustainability
3
6. Course Design
• Lesson 4 – Water
– The Global Water Crisis
– Human and Environmental Impacts
– Water Sustainability
– Innovations and Solutions
• Lesson 5 – Food
– Feeding a Growing Global Population
– Contribution to Climate Change
– Impacts of Climate Change
– Food Justice
• Lesson 6 – Energy
– Energy Trends
– Human and Environmental Impacts
– Energy Innovations and Solutions
4
7. Course Design
• Lesson 7 – Consumption & Waste
– Global Consumption Patterns
– The Impacts of Consumption and Waste
– Waste Reduction Solutions
• Lesson 8 – Biodiversity
– Drivers of Biodiversity Loss
– Biodiversity and Human Well-being
– Conservation Efforts
• Lesson 9 – Ecological Economics
– The Concept of Ecological Economics
– Economic Evaluations
– Examples of Services
– Challenges
5
8. Course Design
• Lesson 10 – Corporate Responsibility
– Corporate Impacts
– The Risk/Opportunity Lens of Sustainability
– Sustainability Concepts for Industry
• Lesson 11 – Professional Speaker
– Identifying and Inviting a Speaker
– Questions on Personal and Professional Development
• Lesson 12 – Taking Action
– Key Actions Currently Underway
– Understanding Scale (Global to Personal)
– Contributing at All Scales
6
9. Course Design
• Lesson 13 – Effective Communications
– Understanding Your Audience
– Crafting a Message
– Dealing with Skepticism
– From Message to Action
• Lesson 14 – Innovations & Future Considerations
– Innovations by Thematic Area
– Our Sustainability Journey
• Lesson 15 – Capstone Presentations
– Student Presentations
– Closing Thoughts
7
10. Capstone Project
• The Capstone is an opportunity to showcase your knowledge,
passion, and professional marketability.
• The Capstone incorporates many of the skills necessary for success
in college and your career, such as:
– Organization
– Project management
– Leadership
– Time management
– Research and data analysis
– Communication
• Completing a Capstone is way for to distinguish yourself amongst
your peers while at the same engaging in meaningful work.
• A list of potential Capstone projects will be provided to you, but do
not feel limited by this list.
– Be creative; find a problem and solve it!
8
11. Lesson 1 – Sustainability & Systems
Thinking
• One of the most important concepts to grasp when learning
about sustainability is that all of our actions have
consequences because we all exist within the same “system”
– Planet Earth. Many of the impacts we have on our
planetary systems are the indirect result of our everyday
actions. This course is designed to help students fully
appreciate these consequences in an attempt to help shape a
more sustainable future.
9
12. Course Intro – Tragedy of the Commons
The Tragedy of the Commons
• A commons is an area to which one cannot prevent access to it.
• In 1968, the ecologist Garrett Hardin put forth an economic theory in terms of the
commons that states:
– Individuals acting independently and rationally according to each's self-interest behave
contrary to the best interests of the whole group by depleting some common resource.
(http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tragedy_of_the_commons)
– Video (~2min): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KZDjPnzoge0
10Hardin, Garrett. "The tragedy of the commons." science 162.3859 (1968): 1243-1248.
13. Course Intro – The Global Commons
The Global Commons
• The atmosphere, oceans, the ozone layer, and our climate are
examples of the global commons.
– No one can prevent access to the climate system or prevent human
activities in separate parts of the planet from affecting the climate.
• How then do we protect the global commons ? For ourselves? For
our children? For their children?
11
– How do we sustain the
planet’s ability to support life
as we know it?
– How do create we a world
that is right and just? A planet
that we would all want to live
on in perpetuity?
14. Course Intro - Defining Sustainability
Pick Your Favorite
• Definition 1 – “Enough, for all, forever.” – African chieftain
• Definition 2 – “The possibility that human and other forms
of life will flourish on the planet forever.” – John Ehrenfeld
• Definition 3 – “Sustainable development is the kind of
development that meets the needs of the present without
compromising the ability of future generations to meet
their own needs.” –Bruntland Commission
• Definition 4 – “Sustainability encompasses human and
ecological health, social justice, secure livelihoods, and a
better world for all generations.” – Association for the
Advancement of Sustainability in Higher Education
12
15. Course Intro - Defining Sustainability
Different Names in Different Contexts
• Sustainability
• Environmental Sustainability
• Corporate Social Responsibility
• Environment, Social, and Governance (ESG)
• Triple Bottom Line accounting
13
Ultimately the question is... How do the decisions I make,
both consciously and unconsciously, impact the rest of
life on Earth, both directly and indirectly?
16. • A cornerstone of Sustainability is the ability to put the
following four skills, or competencies, into practice:
– Critical Thinking: the mental processes of discernment, analysis and
evaluation from an open-minded point of view.
– Systems Thinking: the ability to collectively analyze complex systems across
different domains (society, environment, economy, etc.) and across different
scales (local to global), thereby considering cascading effects, inertia, and
feedback loops.
• The ability to analyze complex systems includes comprehending, empirically
verifying, and articulating their structure, key components, and dynamics.
– Interdisciplinary Thinking: the ability to involve and learn from different
professionals to solve problems and to communicate issues among a variety of
stakeholder groups.
– Values and Ethics: the ability to show and articulate a reverence and respect
for all life.
14
Course Intro – Sustainability Essentials
Adapted from: Jordi Segalàs Karel F. Mulder Didac Ferrer-Balas, (2012),"What do EESD “experts” think sustainability is?
Which pedagogy is suitable to learn it?", International Journal of Sustainability in Higher Education, Vol. 13 Iss 3 pp. 293 - 304
17. Course Intro – Systems Thinking
Systems Analysis
• One commonality all systems have is that matter and energy are
exchanged within and through the system
– These exchanges are classified as either Inputs (additions to the system) or Outputs
(losses from the system)
– Mapping the “pathways” by which these exchanges happen (also referred to as “flows”)
is essential to understanding how the system works
15
Sustainability requires “an intimate understanding of the inner fabric and
dynamics of complex social-ecological systems as a prerequisite for
identifying intervention points, anticipating future trajectories and staging
transition processes.”
– The examination of the inputs, outputs, and
exchanges within a system is known as a
“systems analysis.”
– Systems Thinking video (~3 min):
http://sustainabilityscienceeducation.asu.edu/co
urse/sustainability-competencies/systems-
thinking/
Source: Wiek, Arnim, Lauren Withycombe, and Charles L. Redman. "Key competencies in sustainability: a
reference framework for academic program development.“ Sustainability Science 6.2 (2011): 203-218.
18. Course Intro – Proxies
Out of Sight, Out of Mind
• For many of us, we have become detached from the systems
for which we are an integral part of.
– The writer, Wendell Berry terms our present economic system an “absentee
economy,” noting that “most people aren’t using or destroying what they can
see.” “We are almost entirely dependent on an economy of which we are
entirely ignorant.”
• We would respond to someone spilling toxic chemicals into the lake we swim in, but we ignore
the pollutants being pumped into the atmosphere from which we all breath.
– The solution for Berry is that we all ask ourselves this question, “What proxies
have we issued, and to whom, to use the earth on our behalf?”
16
This course challenges you to understand your place within the larger system, to
expose patterns of injustice, and to be responsible for our proxies in this world.
Source: Cloutier, David. Walking God's Earth: The Environment and Catholic Faith. Liturgical Press, 2014.