Chapter 1: Introduction to Environmental Perspectives

Recently, I had the opportunity to participate as a student auditor for Green Impact, an international organization committed to enhancing workplace sustainability through manageable and effective changes. Being new to the auditing process, the day began with an orientation session. This session primarily provided an overview of the organization, a discussion on the United Nations' sustainability goals, and an introduction to the auditing framework.

During the training, one concept stood out prominently. While engaging in discussions about our environmental responsibilities, the instructor shared an image that challenged our preconceived notions:

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The image was familiar to my fellow volunteers and me; as self-identified environmentalists, we had encountered this model numerous times. However, our instructor aimed to provoke thought and perhaps shift our understanding.

"In my view, this perspective is outdated," she stated, which elicited some confused expressions among us. After all, this model is widely taught, from elementary schools to higher education institutions.

She then presented an alternative illustration.

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With the second image displayed, we all nodded in agreement. It appeared self-evident, straightforward, and almost simplistic. I felt somewhat foolish for not recognizing this sooner. Yet, how often do we view the world through the lens of the initial model, considering society, the environment, and the economy as merely coexisting entities?

Section 1.1: An Eco-Centric Perspective

In my view, there are three fundamental distinctions between the 3 Nested Dependencies Model and the 3 Overlapping Circles Model. The former emphasizes that the three sectors are interdependent: unlike the 3 Overlapping Circles, which suggest that the economy can function independently of the environment, the 3 Nested Dependencies affirm that the economy is fundamentally a subset of society, which in turn is a subset of the environment. They not only coexist but also interact dynamically.

The 3 Nested Dependencies Model serves as a reminder that there is no alternative planet: without a healthy environment, society and the economy cannot thrive. It underscores the necessity of living sustainably to avoid ecological, societal, and economic collapse.

In this model, the economy acts as a subordinate to society, which means we have the power to determine the economic systems we implement. We also possess the ability to modify these systems to enhance our quality of life, reflecting our agency.

In essence, the 3 Nested Dependencies approach prioritizes environmental health over economic pursuits. Unlike the competitive nature suggested by the 3 Overlapping Circles model, the 3 Nested Dependencies emphasize that without clean water, fresh air, and thriving ecosystems, society and the economy cannot function effectively.

Section 1.2: Practical Implications

You may wonder why these theoretical models are significant. What relevance do they hold in practical terms? To address this, let’s consider a real-world example.

Take Queensland, Australia, and the coral bleaching of the Great Barrier Reef. Studies indicate that since 1995, the reef has lost over half of its coral primarily due to climate change-induced sea warming. Is this solely an environmental issue? Or does it also have social and economic implications? Clearly, it encompasses all these dimensions.

The 3 Nested Dependencies model accurately mirrors this complexity. Climate change emerges as the overarching issue, while the socio-economic repercussions, such as declines in tourism, fisheries, and cultural practices, represent the resulting symptoms.

Moreover, the 3 Nested Dependencies perspective influences research methodologies. For instance, one ecologist explains that in her discussions on woody plant identification, she never limits her focus to ecological aspects alone. She consciously highlights the societal (e.g., medicinal uses) and economic (e.g., tourism) value of these plants.

Recognizing the intrinsic value of the environment and our interconnectedness with it can guide us toward making more informed choices. Shifting our perspective, though seemingly minor, is a crucial step toward achieving beneficial environmental outcomes.

Chapter 2: Understanding the Nested Dependencies Model

This first video explores the concept of the "Triple Bottom Line," emphasizing the three pillars of sustainability in business practices.

The second video provides an overview of the three pillars of sustainability, shedding light on their interconnections and importance for a sustainable future.