ABSTRACT
The Natural Step (TNS) provides an elegant framework, a compass, to guide us on the road ahead and is a powerful tool for all seeking a new mental model to move their business into a sustainable future. Founded in Sweden by Dr Karl-Henrik Robert, a leading cancer specialist, TNS addresses the systemic causes of environmental problems. Robert noticed that the increase in cases of childhood leukaemia was linked to environmental problems. According to Forum for the Future, there are business benefits associated with implementing the framework of TNS: TNS has assisted many companies and organisations to develop strategic sustainability initiatives. The approach of TNS is both theoretical and practical. Its theoretical underpinnings, based on the laws of thermodynamics, lend it credibility. In addition, TNS principles benefit from being general enough in nature that organisations in different sectors can adopt them and make them their own.
