The thesis called Only Winners by Frank van Empel (author at Ecolutie) and Martin Bakker was defended on Thursday April 26, 2012, at Erasmus University Rotterdam. Both authors put theory and practice together in order to develop a working method, toolbox and new conceptual framework for regional sustainable development.
The Only Winners Matrix can be perceived as a compass and measuring tool in one for decision makers as well as individuals to find out if a development is sustainable and leads to equal prosperity for people, planet and profit. On th
e Matrix one finds three phases: destruction – deconstruction – construction on the horizontal axe that are combined with behaviour – technology – decision making on the vertical axe.
The measurement is done by using concepts that comply with seven criteria. This creates a dynamic model, with changing concepts which are validated by the criteria.
Whenever a development is destructive for people, environment or economy, deconstruction has to be committed. Ecolution (Ecolutie in Dutch) is the most prominent deconstruction path. The authors call it the lost track, the expedition towards an unknown future that leads to a society we all want to be part of: a society of Only Winners.
The model foresees in developments that are constructive at one time and turn destructiUnderneath you can find the English, German and Spanish translation of the summary of Only Winners. We hope we are able to translate the entire book soon for those of you who are interested.
Only Winners – Una resena Todos Ganados – Zusammenfassung Alle Gewinnen
For the translations we have to thank: Prof. Dr. Don Huisingh – English version, Lisa van Empel – Spanish version and Prof. Mag. Arch. Ing.Dr.h.c. Peter Schmid – German version.
Images: Barend van Hoek, Victory 4 all & Mutual Gains, pencil on paper, 2012
Caro Sicking, Ecolutie, April 29 2012
Gedeeld met The Sword