Sustainability Frameworks

The Natural Step

A set of all-encompassing principles created in 1989 by Dr. Karl-Henrik Robert, this framework provides a structure for making business decisions based on ecological sustainability.

Applying Permaculture Principles to Business

David Holmgren's 12 principles of permaculture can easily apply to business, and are an eloquent way to understand the underlying ideas behind sustainability systems.

Biomimicry

Applying lessons learned from the study of natural methods and systems to the design of technology. Science writer Janine Benyus articulates nine principles in her 1997 book, Biomimicry: 1. Nature runs on sunlight 2. Nature uses only the energy it needs 3. Nature fits form to function 4. Nature recycles everything 5. Nature rewards cooperation 6. Nature banks on diversity 7. Nature demands local expertise 8. Nature curbs excesses from within 9. Nature taps the power of limits

Slow Design

Slow design’ focuses on ideas of well-being. A manifesto for slow sustainable designers suggests a set of guidelines to create a more sustainable lifestyle.