Introduction

Humber College recognizes Brundtland’s definition of sustainability as meeting “the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs” (WCED 1987a: 43, as cited in Scoones, 2007) encompassing the three dimensions of sustainability, environmental, social and economic, referred to as the Triple Bottom Line.

to think and act with collective futures in mind, as sustainability-minded individuals, promoting equitable and sustainable practices in professional and personal lives, acting responsibly in environmental, economic and social ways that protect our planet and contribute positively to the well-being of our communities (Humber Learning Outcomes Framework, 2021, p. 6).

The three dimensions of sustainability: environmental, social, and economic. Some frameworks add a fourth dimension: diversity.

Is an acronym for the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, consisting of 17 goals to reach by the year 2030. 

Is “a transparent, self-reporting framework for colleges and universities to measure their sustainability performance” (The Sustainability Tracking, Assessment & Rating System, n.d.)

A course with a course title or description that indicates a primary and explicit focus on sustainability. 

A course that is not explicitly focused on sustainability but incorporates a unit or module on sustainability or a sustainability challenge, includes one or more sustainability-focused activities, or integrates sustainability challenges, issues, and concepts throughout the course.  

A systems thinking mindset enables us to effect real change by harnessing the interconnectedness of all things. As systems thinkers, Humber graduates approach situations by knowing the limits of their own knowledge and engaging multiple perspectives.  They ask “what if?” They are curious, compassionate and courageous thinkers who actively break down silos and promote holistic problem finding.