The Natural Step

The Natural Step (TNS) is a framework grounded in natural science that serves as a guide for businesses, communities, educators, government entities, and individuals on the path toward sustainable development. The Natural Step framework encourages dialogue, consensus building, and systems-thinking (key processes of organizational learning) and creates the conditions for profound change to occur. It does not prescribe or condemn other approaches but rather introduces and expands on new possibilities. From a business perspective, The Natural Step framework enables corporations to intelligently, and profitably, integrate environmental considerations into strategic decisions and daily operations. The Natural Step framework has inspired the growth of an international network of non-profit, educational organizations working together to build a sustainable society. Monona is part of this larger community.

How did The Natural Step framework begin?
The Natural Step framework was developed in Sweden by oncologist Dr. Karl-Henrik Robèrt in 1989. Frustrated by the piecemeal approach to addressing environmental problems that he saw around him, Dr. Robèrt brought leading Swedish scientists together to develop a consensus on requirements for a sustainable society. These findings, based on systems reflected in natural cycles, have become the backbone of a framework called The Natural Step. Today, 60 major Swedish corporations and 56 municipalities have adopted Natural Step principles. There are several communities in Wisconsin that have adopted The Natural Step principles and many more communities that are engaged in study circles.

How does The Natural Step framework benefit organizations?
Leaders who adopt The Natural Step framework are committed to improving their operations with the goal of long-term sustainability. They are constantly re-thinking and re-creating their organizations to be more innovative, strategic, and effective. The Natural Step framework provides a way for leaders to see “risks” as new opportunities for success. By adding a new dimension of purpose to day-to-day operations, individuals who are employed by and involved with participating organizations often have high morale and a renewed sense of commitment to their work.

Today’s leaders use The Natural Step framework to:

• reduce operating costs and environmental risk
• get ahead of regulatory frameworks
• enhance their organization’s standing among stakeholders
• incorporate environmental concerns into the workplace
• differentiate their products and services and build a positive brand image