Sterling uses education as a force to address critical ecological problems caused by unlimited growth and consumption that is destroying the planet as we have known it, such as: Fossil fuel dependence and rapid climate change. Destruction of biodiversity and loss of wild places. Promotion of harmful agricultural practices that threaten human and natural communities. Persistence of structural oppression that impacts human and ecological wellbeing. Deterioration of civil society through estrangement from community, nature, and place. Our vision is informed and guided by five competencies gained through learning assessed by our faculty: Achieve a sophisticated understanding of, and personal engagement with, ecological systems. Understand societies and cultures as dynamic and complex systems of relationships and interdependencies. Use research and creative endeavor to explore concepts, experiences, and artifacts. Articulate ideas and share information clearly, using a diversity of approaches. Demonstrate effective, knowledgeable, skilled, and responsible leadership in community.