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An Nine-Session Course using materials developed
by the Northwest Earth Institute
Purpose:
* To explore the meaning of
sustainability.
* To consider the ties between lifestyle choices and their impact on the
earth.
* To learn about steps that can be taken
to move toward ecologically sustainable organizations, lifestyles, and
communities.
Topics Covered:
- A Call to Sustainability: The
goal of a sustainable society is popular, but difficult to define. How
does the way our society functions affect the earth, and how can we be
"a blessing to the planet"?
- Ecological Principles: Some
argue that the earth is the best teacher of sustainable practices. How
can nature's organizing principles be applied in design, production of
goods, and everyday living?
- Sustainable Communities: The
more resources we use in the course of daily living, the larger our
"ecological footprint" is. By looking at our actions within the
framework of communities, we can learn to shrink that footprint and
gain a simpler, more balanced lifestyle.
- Sustainable Business and Economy:
Is a growing economy equivalent to a healthy economy? What are other
ways of measuring success, and how can we encourage businesses to
adopt sustainable practices and perspectives?
- Sustainable Food: According
to one author, our food travels an average of 1300 miles before
reaching our plates. How can we lessen our impact on the earth through
conscious choices about the way we eat?
- Sustainable Buying: Daily
messages tell us to buy, buy, buy. How can we escape from these
cultural pressures, and instead only purchase what we truly need, from
the most sustainable sources available?
- Sustainable Living: How can
we build, teach, and live, in our homes and with our families, in
greater harmony with the natural world?
- Visions of Sustainability:
Choices we make today are shaping the world of tomorrow. What are the
possible outcomes, and how can we create the most sustainable society
for ourselves and our children?
For Information on all
discussion courses, click
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