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The Natural Edge Project (TNEP) is a non-profit sustainability think-tank partnership driven by a team of early career Australians. The secretariat team receives mentoring and support from a range of experts and leading organisations in Australia and internationally.

The mission of TNEP is to contribute to and succinctly communicate leading research, case studies, tools and strategies for achieving a sustainable future across government, business and civil society. TNEP was established in November 2002 as an affiliate of Engineers Australia after over two years of part-time volunteer preparation by the founding members (Charlie Hargroves, Michael Smith and James Moody). It is now run by the secretariat; Charlie, Michael and new members, Cheryl Paten and Nick Palousis.

The project formally consists of an advisory and steering committee as well as academic contributors, editorial advisors, and a young professional working group network. TNEP secretariat members seek to assist and co-ordinate this remarkable network to achieve world class outcomes.

TNEP initiatives are not-for-profit. Main activities involve research, creating training material and producing publications, which are supported by grants, sponsorship (both in-kind and financial) and donations. Other activities involve delivering short courses, workshops, and working with our consulting associates as we seek to test and improve the material, and to supplement the funds required to run the project.

At the commencement of the United Nations Decade of Education for Sustainable Development (2005-2014), TNEP is focused on making sustainability relevant to this and future generations as we undertake the following actions:

Engaging in and facilitating discussion on best practice in sustainable development.
Engendering cooperation and collaboration across sectors, disciplines and qualifications to accelerate the transition to a sustainable future.
Identifying knowledge gaps and undertaking original research on how to operationalise sustainable development.
Communicating existing and emerging concepts to a contemporary audience, raising awareness and understanding about sustainability issues.

TNEP seeks to achieve its mission through a range of initiatives that will deliver:

Peer reviewed and endorsed material (including books, education modules, study guides and online resources) with a range of leaders in the field.
Short courses and training programs in partnership with professional bodies, vocational and higher education institutions, and organisations.
Consulting services, research and advice to organisations, helping them to achieve a profitable transition towards sustainable practice.
Opportunities for generational exchange and mentoring through keynote lectures, seminars, forums and interactive sessions with national and international leaders and experts.

TNEP activities are supported initially by our founding partners, and now supported by a range of in-kind and financial supporters and grant providers. Such support and revenue raised is invested directly in existing project work and the development of initiatives - in Australia and internationally. The project's administrative host provides oversight and financial accountability for the use of TNEP funds. The Institution of Engineers Australia was the administrative host for 2003-2006. Griffith University is the administrative host for 2007-2008.

The Natural Edge Project welcomes you to join us on our journey - there are a variety of ways to become involved. Please contact us with your thoughts on other opportunities.