Systems thinking for sustainability: shifting to a higher level of systems consciousness

The grand challenges encapsulated in the seventeen UN Sustainable Development Goals to be achieved by 2030, are complex, messy and interconnected. Fulfilling these goals necessitates a shift in mindset from ego-to-ecosystems awareness and an imperative for stakeholder collaboration. Systems thinking is crucial to address sustainability challenges and an agenda for sustainable development. While some management approaches, like Doughnut Economics and Circular Economy, have roots in systems thinking, there is limited research into system thinking for sustainability. Nevertheless, the authors suggest we can learn from many systems-based contributions in the environmental science/studies literature that address ecological/Earth issues (e.g., Gaia, autopoiesis) and the Operational Research/Systems literature rich in a tradition of engaging communities in analysis and taking action. We ask, “How can systems thinking help businesses to meaningfully engage their stakeholders in a shared sense of purpose, value and impact?” The “systemic sustainability” framework (SSF) is proposed to address this, extending Laszlo’s concept and incorporating traditional systems thinking principles. The SSF emphasises that organisations and their stakeholders engage at four levels of systems awareness, reflecting on organisational purpose, and balancing organisational viability with planetary pressures. Interdependence, legitimacy and thrivability are highlighted as critical concepts in systems thinking for sustainability.