Sustainability and Resilience

Sustainability is, in its most basic sense, the ability to survive in perpetuity. People often refer to the sustainability of ecosystems, of institutions, and of human communities. In the case of institutions and communities, sustainability is often said to include environmental, economic, and societal aspects. That is, to survive in perpetuity, organizations and communities must ensure environmental health, economic prosperity, and social well-being. Resilience is a related concept—the ability of ecosystems, organizations, and human communities to respond effectively to change or even calamity.

Meridian Institute professionals have worked on a wide range of projects relating to sustainability and resilience. Some have involved working with leaders and employees within a single organization—public, private, or nonprofit—to develop a sustainable vision for the future and strategic action steps to get there.

Others have involved facilitating discussions among residents of a given community—each with their own set of interests—on plans to build and improve resilience to natural and man-made disasters. We have also convened dialogues at the national and international levels, with a wide array of decision makers and stakeholders, to address the issue of global sustainability in its broadest sense.

No matter the venue, Meridian professionals work to see that all relevant voices are included and respected in these discussions, that the right process design and substantive information are brought to bear, and that all aspects of sustainability and resilience are taken into consideration.