Seems everywhere I turn I’m running into Global Patriots, either in-real-life or virtually via movies, blogs, books, tweets or personal recommendations. Back in the fall of 2008 I had the pleasure of meeting Steffan Antonas, an avid blogger, digital wizard and fellow champion of the planet. During that first conversation he recommended that I look up Alex Steffen and read about the amazing work he was doing at Worldchanging – I’ve been a big fan ever since.
For Global Patriot Day 2011, Alex Steffen is being honored for his continued dedication & hard work in support of our fragile planet!
Alex is a renowned writer and speaker on the topic of sustainability, with a keen focus on systems thinking as the foundation for creating a future that is vibrant and healthy. His ability to grasp the scope and complexity of ‘the big picture’ when dealing with global or local issues is unique, as few leaders sense the connection between sustainability and human rights.
While Alex pulls no punches when explaining the gravity of the situation we find ourselves in, he maintains a positive attitude based on the firm belief that we are fully capable of solving such difficult problems – if we have the will to do so, and the conviction to work together.
This approach is illustrated within the pages of his book: Worldchanging: A User’s Guide for the 21st Century. First published in 2006, it was hailed as for its holistic, sustainable thinking, and the second edition has been significantly revised over the past five years. I think of it as an encyclopedia of Global Patriotism!
Buying this book is a smart (and sustainable) move on your part!
The book is divided into seven main sections: Stuff, Shelter, Cities, Community, Business, Politics and Planet – and within each of these sections are digestible articles on topics ranging from designing durability to biomimicry, the need for smart grids, greening our infrastructure, healing polluted land, sustainable agriculture, holistic problem solving, nonviolent revolution, social entrepreneurship, creating business value from sustainability and even citizen science.
Examples illustrate where society has gone wrong, while insightful articles present innovative ideas and concepts designed to reverse such downward trends. Resource sections provide you with more avenues of exploration, highlighting individuals and organizations that are providing sustainable answers to current and future problems.
After ordering a copy of Worldchanging: A User’s Guide for the 21st Century, take a moment to write a comment below letting us know who you think should be honored as a true Global Patriot!
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