4 Ways of Sustainability Thinking

Sustainability is a mindset. A different way of looking at the world.

Thinking sustainably integrates four ways of thinking:

1. Systems Thinking: Understanding that nothing exists in a vacuum and that everything is part of a larger series of interconnected systems. i.e. Learning how to reveal the systemic-causal structure of a problem.

2. Futures Thinking: Anticipating the positive and negative consequences of a potential solution. i.e. Effectively crafting solution visions.

3. Values Thinking: How to assess the sustainability of problems and solutions. Questions the morality of problem states and solution proposals.

4. Strategic Thinking: How to craft viable paths from sustainability problems to effective solutions.

The framework outlined in a format for the classroom: http://sse.asu.edu/ways-of-thinking/

Primary Source: https://static.sustainability.asu.edu/schoolMS/sites/4/2018/04/Key_Competencies_Overview_Final.pdf