Sustainability Workshops, Webinars and Discussions

Our sustainable education resources address issues from basic sustainability concepts to more advanced techniques for establishing sustainable business practices and building sustainable communities.

LIVE WORKSHOPS

May 4, 2011         Applying the Natural Step Framework - Portland, OR

Jul 7-8, 2011        Sustainability for Leaders: Foundations - Seattle, WA

WEBINARS

Change Series 2011 - Webinars to Change the World for a year-long series)

Introduction to The Natural Step Network  (multiple dates)

 TNS-USA is pleased to announce that we are now a Certification Maintenance Provider with the American Planning Association.

Applying The Natural Step Framework - May 4, 2011

8:30 am - 5:00 pm, Doubletree Hotel Portland, OR

This one-day program is designed to introduce business, government and community leaders to sustainability and The Natural Step Framework. In the morning, a presentation will define sustainability and present the basic principles of The Natural Step Framework, including the scientific basis for the Framework model and case studies. Attendees will participate in small group exercises around the four principles and learn how to apply the Framework in the creation of a business product and service.

In the afternoon, two local business leaders will share their organizations' experience in using The Natural Step Framework to implement sustainable concepts. Later, participants will learn how to use the four system conditions as a guide in moving their organization toward sustainability.

What You Will Learn:
•    A whole systems perspective for considering sustainability
•    The Natural Step Framework including the four system conditions
•    The basic science underlying the Framework
•    How the Framework is used for decision-making and strategic planning
•    Suggestions for applying the Framework in organizations
•    Resources for fresh ideas and assistance when you wonder, "What's next?"
•    Through case studies, how organizations have benefited from implementing the Framework

Facilitator: Duke Castle (for more information, follow registration link)

Price: $170 TNS and Cascadia members, $195 General admission

Sustainability for Leaders: Foundations   - July 7 & 8, 2011

8:30 am - 5:00 pm, Good Shepherd Center, Seattle, WA

Master sustainability leadership skills, network with others and expand your options for creating a sustainable future. Our foundation course gives participants a robust understanding of The Natural Step Framework. You will gain skills and knowledge to make the case for change, apply a systems based approach to internal planning, and guide decision making to achieve sustainable results inside of the organization and out.

Learn to apply The Natural Step Framework, a proven methodology for planning and managing an effective sustainability program. This foundation will help you identify key messages to build support and momentum internally. Our focus is on participation and practical experience with numerous opportunities for dialogue and hands-on application. The general admission course fee includes a 1-year Individual membership in The Natural Step Network and access to our community site, TransformAgents.org.

See full course description here

Price: $600 TNS and Cascadia members, $650 General admission

Change Series 2011 - Webinars to Change the World for full series

Behind every successful endeavor, there is a well-planned process. And like every other initiative your organization will undertake, from supply chain processes to marketing efforts, good sustainability practices require good planning, a powerful message and skills to create motivated teams and  effect change.
Sustainability champions, we've listened to you. Join us for our 2011 webinar series - interact with six amazing and motivational leaders in the industry. You will learn from their successes (and failures) on topics like powerful messaging tactics, community transformation catalysts and ways to build group commitment and energy.

Speakers:

• Bob Doppelt, Executive Director, The Resource Innovation Group
• Anna Fahey, Communications Strategist, Sightline Institute
• Sarah James, Co-Director, Institute for Ecomunicipality Education and Assistance
• John Ikerd, Professor Emeritus of agricultural economics, University of Missouri
• Bob Pavlik, Executive Director High Wind Foundation and Director, Institute for the Transformation of Learning, Marquette University
• Jeff Leinaweaver, Natural Step Associate and Founder of Global Zen

For more information on webinar topics and speakers, see here.

Price: $48 TNS, Cascadia and Town and County RC&D members, $60 General admission

Introduction to The Natural Step Network

upcoming dates: August 9, December 6, 2011

This 1-hour general orientation is a concise overview of The Natural Step Framework and how it has been used by organizations and communities. The presentation will describe the core components of the Framework: Systems thinking, Sustainability Principles and backcasting methodology. You’ll learn how these components are used to coordinate actions and continuously move your organization closer to achieving its vision. Participants will have the opportunity to ask questions and learn about additional resources available to their organizations.

Price: FREE

 August 9 - 11:00 am PT

December 6 - 4:00 pm PT
RESCHEDULED FOR 2012
ALL Registrants will be notified of new schedule when available.