Learning Outcomes:
- Participants will understand the fundamental concepts of sustainability, including its environmental, economic, and social dimensions;
Duration:
55 minutes
Materials needed:
- PPT Presentation
- projector
- laptop
- flipchart
- markers
Preparation
Materials needed: prepare a PowerPoint presentation that introduces the three pillars of sustainability (environmental, economic, and social). Include examples and case studies for each pillar. Handouts on sustainability principles can be provided for participants to follow along. Prepare flip charts and markers for group discussions.
Setup: Arrange the room to encourage discussion—round tables or a U-shape seating arrangement works well. Ensure that participants can see the presentation clearly.
Technology: Test the projector or screen in advance if using a PowerPoint presentation. For online sessions, share the slides and make use of digital breakout rooms for group discussions.
Description
The trainer introduces the concept of sustainability through the three pillars—environmental, economic, and social. Instead of simply lecturing, the trainer uses the PowerPoint as a starting point for discussion. After each pillar is introduced, participants are invited to share their real-life examples of sustainability in their communities. The trainer encourages group discussions to explore how the pillars interact in real-world contexts. The session ends with participants working in small groups to identify sustainability challenges and opportunities in their own communities.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Present the first pillar of sustainability (e.g., environmental), using real-world examples to illustrate key points.
- Pause to ask participants for their examples of environmental sustainability in their communities.
- Repeat the process for the economic and social pillars.
- Divide participants into small groups and give them 15 minutes to discuss sustainability challenges and opportunities in their communities. Provide flip charts for them to record their thoughts.
Have each group present their findings, and facilitate a short discussion on how these challenges can be addressed through sustainability practices.
Debriefing
Have participants summarize the key sustainability challenges and opportunities discussed in their groups, ensuring they connect them to the three pillars of sustainability.
Tips
Avoid turning the PowerPoint into a lecture. Use it as a conversation starter to engage participants.
Ensure that the examples provided are relatable to the participants’ context, whether they come from urban or rural backgrounds, different industries, etc.
Encourage participation from all group members by asking open-ended questions and prompting quieter participants to share.
Be prepared to adapt the discussion to participants’ experiences and interests, allowing flexibility in the examples and case studies provided.
Handouts and resources
The trainer(s) can use these handouts for the session or create their own, as long as the same basic concepts are included (the pillars of sustainability and case studies references).
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