Eco-social approach as a framework social work Aila-Leena Matthies and Kati Närhi University of Jyväskylä, Finland Kokkola University Consortium Chydenius

Themes Why environmental issues are relevant for Social Work? What kind of theoretical directions do we have in eco-social approach in social work? Recent international discussions/themes of eco-social work/ environmental social work What kind of practical models of eco-social approach in social work?

Why environmental issues are relevant for Social Work? The consequences of ecological crises and shortage of natural resources have strongest impact on the most vulnerable people Social work itself is part of the modern industrial system which is destroying the environment Social work basic principle is to regard human in its environment, which should include also natural and physical environment Social work needs a holistic analysis of the micro-, meso- and macro- structures of the contexts of the resources and problems of individuals and communities

Theoretical directions in ecosocial approach in social work Historically in the methods of Social work: – Community work and Jane Addams – Case Work and Social Environment Systems theoretical thinking Eco-critical thinking and environmental crisis Sustainability debate

Current eco-social debates in global Social Work Globalisation of the discussion and various directions coming closer to each other – Seeing the global task of social work due to the globalisation of economy Ecological crisis as a crisis of SW profession: Stronger voices from developing countries and their broader understanding of social work as a movement and involving in environmental conflicts Cross-disciplinary and cross-professional activities towards eco- social transformation of societies with a strong role of social work (urban and rural development, energy, food, housing) Environmental justice discource: Environment as an own part of discussion on justice; encluding the rights of fauna and flora as such, not only as a ressource of humans Green Care and other concepts based on the healing impact of nature: developing natural social work practice?

Practical examples of ecosocial approach in Social Work In Community work in urban context In Community work in rural context Social Impact Assessment Social Work beyond the paradigm of economic growth and large scales? Green Care applications in Social Work? Global solidarity of Social Work practice?