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The Science of Climate Change

Climate change is no longer a distant threat or just a possibility, it is now a reality for all of us. In this pathway, Kevin Trenberth, a renowned climatologist, delves into the science behind climate change. He first introduces the climate system, its main components and forces.

Tackling the Plastic Crisis

Plastic pollution is by far the biggest threat to our oceans and this remains an incredibly tough problem to solve. Plastic credits could potentially serve as one of the much needed solutions for this crisis.

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The Scale of the Net Zero Challenge

The price of meeting net zero is estimated to be between $100-150 trillion over the next 30 years. Regardless of this cost, we need to reach net zero before climate change does irreversible damage to the environment and the economy.

ESG, Sustainability and Impact Jargon Buster

ESG, sustainability, impact… they all just mean green, right? Not quite. Despite being used often interchangeably, there are distinct differences between these terms.

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Featured Pathways

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The Science of Climate Change

Climate change is no longer a distant threat or just a possibility, it is now a reality for all of us. In this pathway, Kevin Trenberth, a renowned climatologist, delves into the science behind climate change. He first introduces the climate system, its main components and forces.

Tackling the Plastic Crisis

Plastic pollution is by far the biggest threat to our oceans and this remains an incredibly tough problem to solve. Plastic credits could potentially serve as one of the much needed solutions for this crisis.

More pathways

Book a demo

Ready to get started?

Our Platform

Expert led content

+1,000 expert presented, on-demand video modules

Learning analytics

Keep track of learning progress with our comprehensive data

Interactive learning

Engage with our video hotspots and knowledge check-ins

Testing & certification

Gain CPD / CPE credits and professional certification

Managed learning

Build, scale and manage your organisation’s learning

Integrations

Connect Sustainability Unlocked to your current platform

Featured Content

More featured content

The Scale of the Net Zero Challenge

The price of meeting net zero is estimated to be between $100-150 trillion over the next 30 years. Regardless of this cost, we need to reach net zero before climate change does irreversible damage to the environment and the economy.

ESG, Sustainability and Impact Jargon Buster

ESG, sustainability, impact… they all just mean green, right? Not quite. Despite being used often interchangeably, there are distinct differences between these terms.

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Book a demo

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Book a demo

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How Social Impact is Influenced by 'Us'

How Social Impact is Influenced by 'Us'

Karimi Fondaumiere

Director and co-founder

In this video, we delve into the significance of collaborative efforts in driving social change and understand the Theory U framework, developed. We also go through an engaging case study to demonstrate how Theory U can help organisations address deep-rooted cultural challenges. We also discuss practical strategies for effective collaboration, the importance of cultural sensitivity in multi-cultural teams and practical steps to optimise collaboration.

In this video, we delve into the significance of collaborative efforts in driving social change and understand the Theory U framework, developed. We also go through an engaging case study to demonstrate how Theory U can help organisations address deep-rooted cultural challenges. We also discuss practical strategies for effective collaboration, the importance of cultural sensitivity in multi-cultural teams and practical steps to optimise collaboration.

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How Social Impact is Influenced by 'Us'

14 mins 19 secs

Key learning objectives:

  • Identify how working collaboratively is essential to creating social change

  • Understand what the Theory U framework is and how to implement it in your organisation and team

  • Identify how to foster deep listening, inclusive spaces and multi-sectoral collaborations to achieve social change

Overview:

In order to achieve social change, collaborative efforts are crucial. This is why we also need to view social problems through the “we” lens. The Theory U framework serves as a tool to help foster such collaboration and overcoming social problems. It guides individuals and organisations through a process of deep listening, reflection, and co-creation.

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Summary
Why is social change a collective effort?

Social problems are interconnected and require diverse stakeholder engagement. Collaboration helps us see the bigger picture, share responsibilities, and boost the success of impactful solutions, while also expanding the reach and influence of initiatives.

What is Theory U and how does Theory U apply to social issues?

Theory U is a transformative leadership and change management framework developed by Otto Scharmer, a senior lecturer at MIT Sloan School of Management. It involves a journey of deep listening, reflection, and co-creation, helping individuals and organisations tackle complex challenges by being fully present to the current reality and emerging future possibilities.

Theory U helps address social issues by guiding individuals and organisations through a structured process of letting go of preconceived notions, observing the current reality with fresh eyes, fostering deep empathy, co-creating innovative solutions, and implementing these solutions. The framework emphasises the importance of diverse stakeholder engagement and systemic understanding of problems.

What are the different stages of Theory U?

  1. Downloading -  Letting go of preconceived notions and opening minds to new perspectives
  2. Seeing - Observing the current reality with fresh eyes and conducting a thorough analysis of the problem
  3. Sensing - Encouraging deep empathy by actively listening to affected communities
  4. Presencing - Accessing collective creativity and wisdom for co-creation of solutions
  5. Crystallising -  Implementing co-created solutions into actionable initiatives
  6. Prototyping -  Experimenting with potential solutions and learning from failures
  7. Performing - Integrating and applying solutions into daily operations with ongoing learning and adaptation


How does cultural sensitivity play a role in collaboration?
Cultural sensitivity is crucial in cross-cultural collaboration, as diverse perspectives and cultural nuances significantly impact social impact initiatives. We need to understand the importance of cultural preferences to avoid discomfort or misunderstanding. Theory U's principles of Open Mind, Open Heart, and Open Will facilitate cultural empathy, sensitivity, and inclusive decision-making.

What practical steps can optimise collaboration in multicultural teams?

  1. Clear Communication - Establishing open dialogue and feedback mechanisms
  2. Cultural Awareness - Providing resources and training to enhance understanding of different cultural norms
  3. Inclusivity -  Creating an environment where diverse perspectives are valued
  4. Leveraging strengths - Assigning tasks based on individuals' strengths and expertise
  5. Common goals and Values - Aligning the team around shared objectives
  6. Adaptability - Being open to adjusting processes based on feedback and learning

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Karimi Fondaumiere

Karimi Fondaumiere

Karimi Fondaumiere, founder and CEO of SPRK, is a consultancy that assists organisations, leaders, and individuals in navigating complexity and change. With a degree in information systems and a background in IT consulting, she specialises in Social Innovation and Entrepreneurship. She has also worked in management consulting, advising corporates on scaling businesses for impact. She is a member of the Duke Global Educator network and a faculty member at the University of Cape Town Graduate School of Business. Her focus is on social impact and organizational development, helping stakeholders think strategically about sustainability and dealing with complex challenges.

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