• Clear all

Holistic Management

A term originally used to describe an approach to managing land resources that builds biodiversity, improves production, generates financial strength, and improves the quality of life for those who use it. Holistic Management addresses the farm, family, and community as an integrated whole, instead of as separate parts. Coined by Allan Savory, a biologist in Zimbabwe, the method can be applied to organizations, businesses, communities, or individuals in need of making decisions.

In taking a whole-systems approach, decision makers need to first identify all of the stakeholders in relation to the decision, including both people and nature. Once the stakeholders are identified, a goal or statement of purpose is defined with the consideration of individual and group needs as well as nature’s current and future needs. The group then tests all future decisions and actions by considering whether or not they will help reach this goal.

Explore Other SDG Vocabulary

Inclusive Education

Inclusive Education

In an inclusive school, children with and without disabilities study in the same classroom. Children learn together in one classroom, using materials that are appropriate to their...

Industrial Ecology

Industrial Ecology

A field of study and practice that focuses on how industry can be developed or restructured to reduce environmental burdens throughout the product life cycle (extraction, productio...

Industrial Metabolism

Industrial Metabolism

The total use of materials and energy throughout an entire industrial process, such as manufacturing. This includes the source, transportation, use, reuse, recycling, and disposal...