A subject that is at the core of nearly every conversation I have, my goal was to simply show others how I frame sustainability, and then how I take the steps I do. I tend to look past the environmental and investment focuses that have come to define sustainability towards systems and program, and it was through this lens that I really looked to focus the 30 or so who were in attendance.
As it is through this lens that I have developed my own platforms and solutions in China.
3. Currently Accepted Definitions - Wikipedia – Sustainability, in a broad sense, is the capacity to endure. In ecology, the word describes how biological systems remain diverse and productive over time. For humans it is the potential for long-term maintenance of wellbeing, which in turn depends on the wellbeing of the natural world and the responsible use of natural resources. - WashingtonStateUniversity - Sustainable means using methods, systems and materials that won't deplete resources or harm natural cycles" (Rosenbaum, 1993). Sustainability identifies a concept and attitude in development that looks at a site's natural land, water, and energy resources as integral aspects of the development" (Vieira,1993) “ Sustainability integrates natural systems with human patterns and celebrates continuity, uniqueness and placemaking" (Early, 1993) Definitions that are heavily focused on the environment, and all things “green”
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5. TV Shows on CNN & Discovery highlight human impact on the environment while CNBC covers investment opportunities
23. But.. It is more than that Clean Energy Carbon offsets Green Jobs Managed Resources Populations & Labor Consumer Safety Urban Planning & Urbanization Food & Agriculture Landfills & eWaste Overpackaging Healthcare Traffic and Transport Healthcare
24. Building Communities Our Mission: Hands On China’s mission is connecting people – both locals and foreigners in Shanghai who want to become involved as volunteers in community activities with local charities who need assistance. How We Work: Coordinates volunteer opportunities for active professionals, according to their availability and personal interests 2) Support project partners with direct donations, fundraising planning and execution, community project design/implementation 3)Design and manage a variety of community relations programs for private sector partners in Shanghai – CorpWorks!
92. Purchase 2nd hand, refurbish “old” items, and recycle when there is no other alternative. Reuse should come before recycle.Tip 4: Engage in the Community Volunteer, explore the community, serve on a board, and help someone outside your concentric ring. Understand the role you have within the community, your impact on the community, and the responsibility we have to the community Tip 5: Teach others … friends, family, & coworkers
93. What is your definition of sustainability?What do you see as the core issues?What are the solutions you see?
94. Will you return home and hope that others will save the world?Or will you engage…. and Be The Change?
95. A Few Resources Books on what else can happen: Books on what is happening: Books on Individual Actions: Books on sustainability:
96. My Sites Learn More : All Roads Lead to China www.allroadsleadtochina.com Crossroads www.china-crossroads.com Cleaner Greener China www.cleanergreenerchina.com Get Engaged: Hands On Shanghai www.hansonshanghai.org Hands On Chengdu www.handsonchengdu.org Hands On Hong Kong www.handsonhongkong.org Follow my Tweet! Crossroads @chinaCSR Cleaner Greener China @greenerchina Hands On Shanghai @handsonshanghai Hands On Chengdu @handsonchengdu