Transition - Creating a global sustainability network

We are currently seeking feedback on our transition plans to build a global network for strategic sustainable development. We are adding more content and news here, so check back later to stay up to date.

Overview

Read the latest information in the links below.

• Spaghetti and Marshmallows - update from the Interim Chief Executive (September 2011)
• Special Transition Issue of Stepping Stones (December 2010)
• Major Announcement - New Interim CEO (November 2010)
• The Natural Step comes of Age with a new Vision – A Message from the Transition Team (March 2010)
• Stepping Stones (Volume 1, Issue 2) - Major Changes at The Natural Step and Scaling Up Through Collaboration (June 2009)

Background

After 20 years of development and application, The Natural Step Framework* has shown its utility and potential to transform organisations at every scale across the globe. The approach and its pioneers are being recognized internationally and Ashoka - the worlds largest organisation of social entrepreneurs - has acknowledged the Framework as a social innovation 'ready to scale'. Stakeholders are asking us to make the Framework more widely available and provide better ways to connect, contribute, co-operate and unite with a stronger voice.

We invite you to co-create a new global sustainability network of thousands of practitioners, researchers, institutions, businesses and communities on every continent, united by a proven Framework and passion to work together to accelerate positive change toward sustainability.

*Also known as the Framework for Strategic Sustainable Development in the academic context.

About the Network

Here you can jump straight to the details of the proposed network:

• What are we trying to achieve - proposed goals
• How can you participate - proposed membership model
• Core initiatives and network functions
• Founders Club

News and updates

• Check out the latest activities as the network expands in The Netherlands
• We're also fostering new activities across Europe and are in discussions with groups in Spain, Portugal, Poland, Germany, Lithuania and Finland. And more to come.

Process – Our plan for moving forward

Networks are built one node at a time so we are encouraging interested stakeholders to get involved as soon as possible by being part of the discussion and by contributing in whatever way they can. A number of organisations are already progressing through training to take on roles as we build the network. This is an ambitious undertaking and we know there are many things yet to address. We appreciate your feedback and involvement as we embark on this journey together.

1. Check our Frequently Asked Questions page as a first step.
2. Provide feedback to Peter Price-Thomas or to the transition team.
3. Or, if you prefer, make contact with your nearest TNS office.
4. If you are in a position to help with funding, please let us know. More about the Founder’s Club here.
5. To stay up to date, please subscribe to our newsletter.
6. Finally, please let us know if you have specific interest in taking on a role to expand the network.  You can contact us via any of the options above.