The Center for Ecology and Eco-philosophy was established at the Cardinal Stefan Wyszyński University in 2002. It means that this year – 2017 – marks the 15th anniversary of the existence of our Center. The main reason for creating our Institute was a common source of problems emerging in ecology and bioethics. We have, therefore, engaged in our project scholars representing both the humanities and sciences. It was thought that this idea would become extremely interesting and inspiring for academics working in various research areas. It is worth adding that we are the only Institute in Poland that combines scientific and humanistic knowledge concerning environmental protection.
It was exactly thirty years ago that the Brundtland Report was announced. The report defined for the first time the concept of sustainability. According to this report „sustainability” is a way of life that meets the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs. It is the capacity to endure. Sustainability encompasses the three pillars of environmental health, economic vitality, and social equity. Currently “sustainability” is an interdisciplinary field that seeks creative solutions to promote environmental health and restoration, social equity, and economic vitality.
The rich scientific and educational experience of our Institute has prompted us to make a decision to open in the coming academic year (2017/18) the first international program in Poland focusing on „sustainability studies”. I deeply believe that many students from different parts of Europe (and other parts of the world) will join our students in their pursuit of a better understanding of the concept of sustainable development.
Director of the Center for Ecology and Eco-philosophy