This article discusses a method of measuring sustainability within an organization.

Appropriate Subject Area(s):

Entrepreneurship, business administration, sustainability

Key Questions to Explore:

• What is sustainability?

New Terminology:

Sustainability, triple bottom line

Materials needed:

Chart A

• https://www.mcgill.ca/sustainability/files/sustainability/what-is-sustainability.pdf
• http://www.sustainabilitydegrees.com/what-is-sustainability/
• http://www.environmentalscience.org/sustainability

Introduction to lesson and task:

Students will explore the concept of sustainability, what it is and what it means to them, their community and the workplace

Action (lesson plan and task):

• Ask the class: what is sustainability? Write down all the key points on the board.
• Use the links above to further develop the conversation on sustainability and what it means.
• Using Chart A, have students read the first part of the article and in small groups complete the chart for further discussion.
• As a class, discuss the implications of falling short of sustainability goals locally and globally.

Consolidation of Learning:

• Have students interview a local business regarding sustainability practices and report back to the class.

Success Criteria:

• Students understand sustainability and its impact locally and globally.

Confirming Activity:

• Have students write a one-minute paper on things they can do to contribute to community sustainability.