Calgary, AB :: September 28th and 29th, 2010

In the realm of sustainability, there is a vast sea of opinions, information and visions of a sustainable society. Amidst these intense waves and unpredictable winds, sustainability leaders can often feel lost and challenged by the direction and purpose in their organization’s move [or lack thereof] towards sustainability. How, then, can one make sense of where to go? In a dynamic and interconnected world, where is the lighthouse to guide our journey towards sustainability?

On September 28th and 29th 2010, eleven diverse and passionate participants gathered in Calgary to answer this question; their motivations inspiring. When asked what motivates them to work towards a sustainable future, responses included:  

• “to allow future generations to have equal opportunity as us  whilst creating a happier, healthier and more equitable society”
• “to be part of the solution, not part of the problem”
• “to see when light bulbs go off”
• “to feel the passion people get when invested in something”
• “it is the right thing to do”
• “to engage and inspire others”
• “to protect the planet”

In an open and well-nourished environment, the diversity in age, place and profession of participants created a powerful, yet comfortable space for meaningfully exploring sustainability – the conditions set by expert facilitators namely, Sarah Brooks and Karen Miller.

Initially, participants were educated in the core concepts behind The Natural Step which included a funnel metaphor, system conditions for a sustainable society, creating a common language on sustainability, backcasting and an ABCD planning methodology - supplemented by examples from real organizations and several group projects/discussions. After a long first day of learning, participants left tired, yet intellectually stimulated. Although the participants were now provided with the lighthouse which can guide them towards a sustainable future, several were still contemplating the connections of how to navigate the seas within their own organizations.

Any uncertainty was answered on Day 2 when the course transitioned to practical application of the concepts. Most of the outstanding connections were realized in the design of a short presentation of concepts learned from Day 1. Brainstorming, circles, discussions, laughs, refining, “aha” moments, dreaming, “walkabouts” and reflections filled the remainder of Day 2. At the conclusion of the workshop, the wind had filled the sails of the participants.

The world can now look forward to a new group of more engaged and more empowered sustainability leaders. Returning to their respective organizations with the lighthouse provided and beacon shining bright, these champions of tomorrow realize their importance of getting others on board. A participant summed it up perfectly in saying that, “when we know where we need to go, we need not a single captain, but a full ship of sailors at the helm.”

Best of luck to all in gathering their sailors and on their future sustainability journeys. 

By,
Matt Mayer
“Storyteller” Volunteer
October 1st, 2010
Calgary, AB