PRESS-RELEASE

Omega Press Release

April 19, 2013

Omega Breaks New Ground With Ecological Literacy, Sustainability Initiatives in 2013

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Omega Announces All-Star Conference; Adds New Educational Programming in Sustainability, Intensifies Focus on Regenerative Design

RHINEBECK, NY – Omega Institute, home of the award-winning Omega Center for Sustainable Living (OCSL), today announced two innovative sustainability programs being offered on its beautiful Hudson Valley campus. The OCSL, an environmental education center and natural water reclamation facility that was named the first green building in America to achieve both LEED® Platinum and Living Building Challenge™ certifications, is breaking new ground again with its 2013 offering.

“The Omega Center for Sustainable Living and its educational programs demonstrate and teach what is possible through regenerative design,” said Robert “Skip” Backus, chief executive officer at Omega. “This year we are proud to offer a deep immersion into ecological literacy through our new certificate program, and to convene a number of thought leaders at the forefront of whole-systems thinking. From permaculture and farming to the latest in sustainable design, our goal is to help people better understand natural systems and how to live and work within them, so together we can build a truly regenerative future,” concluded Backus.

Highlights of Omega’s 2013 sustainability programs include:

Ecological Literacy Immersion Program: June 16 – July 26, 2013

This innovative, one-of-a-kind, 6-week residential certificate program explores new ways to understand natural systems and how to live and work within them. Using the 200-acre Omega campus as a classroom, students develop an understanding of place by looking at current challenges and solutions that exist at Omega and elsewhere. Guided by experts in the fields of biomimicry, permaculture, biodynamic agriculture, water and soil science, renewable energy, and whole-systems design, participants explore ecology from a social, economic, and spiritual perspective. *This is an application only course. The program is limited to 25 students. For more information, contact Laura at LauraW@eomega.org or 845.266.4444, ext. 377.

Where We Go From Here: October 4 – October 6, 2013

This weekend conference explores opportunities and solutions for living in an interdependent world, by bringing together those at the forefront of whole-systems thinking, including leading economists, environmentalists, philanthropists, designers, architects, and activists who share insights for navigating the complex challenges facing humanity. Through inspiring keynote talks, panel discussions, stories from the field, and a tour of the award-winning Omega Center for Sustainable Living (OCSL), participants learn how each of us has a meaningful role to play in promoting the health and wellness of all living things. Join Jeremy Rifkin, Janine Benyus, David W. Orr, Majora Carter, Paul Hawken, and more. *Scholarships are available for this conference.

“Omega understands that sustainability does not answer some of the biggest issues we all face,” said Backus. “The conversation must move even further, beyond the idea of ‘sustainability’ to work that is regenerative with ecological and social systems. In short, we need to create solutions that can regenerate the health and well-being of all living things. We believe our programming for 2013 points Omega, and our community, in that direction.”

For complete details or to register, visit eOmega.org or call 800.944.1001.

About Omega Institute for Holistic Studies
Founded in 1977, Omega Institute for Holistic Studies is the nation's most trusted source for wellness and personal growth. As a nonprofit organization, Omega offers diverse and innovative educational experiences that inspire an integrated approach to personal and social change. Located on 200 acres in the beautiful Hudson Valley, Omega welcomes more than 23,000 people to its workshops, conferences, and retreats in Rhinebeck, New York, and at exceptional locations around the world.
eOmega.org

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About Omega Institute for Holistic Studies
Founded in 1977, Omega Institute for Holistic Studies is the nation's most trusted source for wellness and personal growth. As a nonprofit organization, Omega offers diverse and innovative educational experiences that inspire an integrated approach to personal and social change. Located on 250 acres in the beautiful Hudson Valley, Omega welcomes people to its workshops, conferences, and retreats in Rhinebeck, New York, and online at eOmega.org.