Natural Step Study Circles
What is the Natural Step?
The Natural Step is a way of both learning and applying basic principles that make communities environmentally sustainable, economically viable and socially just. This approach was initially established in Sweden, though it is now being implement in other municipalities, including many the US. In 2007, both the City and County of La Crosse voted to become eco-municipalities and adopt the Natural Step framework.
What are Natural Step Study Circles?
Study circles consist of up to 12 participants and 1 facilitator. Circles meet weekly for several weeks to discuss readings from the book, The Natural Step for Communities: How Cities and Towns can Change to Sustainable Practices. They are a great way to meet interesting members of our community and consider how we can adopt more sustainable lifestyles. Since spring 2007, 100+ people have participated in 13 study circles.
When/where do Study Circles meet?
Study circles several times throughout the year. Both 5-week and 9-week circles are offered. Circles meet at various places in the La Crosse area, including, the People’s Food Coop, the La Crosse Public Library, the University of Wisconsin-La Crosse, and First Supply. Circles typically meet for 1.5 hours, once a week during a weekday evening, though circles may also meet at other times.
Who can participate?
Anyone! Participants will purchase the book, The Natural Step for Communities ($20), though loaner copies are available.
How do I enroll?
Please contact Rob Tyser (rtyser@gmail.com) for information. Upcoming study circles are usually announced in local newspapers and newsletters.