***Read "Leading for the Environment" on the Catto Fellowship in the
Winter 2007/2008 Aspen Idea Magazine***
***Aspen Institute Names Catto Fellows for 2007 (September 14, 2007)***
 The Challenge
Climate change, the loss of biodiversity, diminishing fresh water availability, dwindling fish populations and other environmental problems threaten disruptions on a scale more imposing than ever before. Indeed, this combination of global environmental trends imperil the balance of nature, the survival of species and human well-being. Yet, effective collaboration on environmental issues among non-governmental, public and private organizations is lacking or inadequate, and there is little agreement among these stakeholders on how best to address these global trends.
Time is of the essence. A significant change is needed in both the pace and effectiveness of the response to the needs of people and the environment. Responsibility and leadership for a new energy- and environment-conscious global economy must extend beyond civil society to a responsive level of government concern and a purposeful sense of innovation in the market.
The Aspen Institute Catto Fellowship Program is designed to create an opportunity for emerging leaders from different sectors and cultures to step back from the fray, reflect on and crystallize their beliefs and values relative to the environment, learn from others approaching environmental challenges from entirely different angles and jointly develop innovative solutions.
The Program
Every other year a diverse class of approximately 20 Catto Fellows between the ages of 30 and 45 undertakes a program of advanced seminars and development activities under the direction of experienced Aspen Institute moderators. The initiative offers an intensive leadership collegium and opportunities for personal and professional reflection. The two-year program involves four intentional seminars of approximately five days (two each year), one of which will take place abroad.
Individuals cannot apply to the Catto Fellowship Program on their own: they must be nominated by recognized leaders of the business and professional communities or by Fellows, Senior Mentors, members of the Catto Fellowship Advisory Committee or The Aspen Institute Board of Trustees.
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