How sustainable development is understood in World Federation of Occupational Therapy policy

Abstract

Introduction

Sustainable development is used to tackle environmental crises affecting human survival. Many sectors endorse sustainable development as a guiding principle but the health sector is yet to incorporate it in an effective and coordinated manner. To support occupational therapy engagement, the World Federation of Occupational Therapy developed a policy outlining their position on sustainable development.

Method

The policy analysis method developed by Carol Bacchi (the ‘What’s the problem represented to be?’ approach) and elite interviewing of three members of the policy writing committee were used to explore how sustainable development is represented by the World Federation of Occupational Therapy and the effects of this representation.

Results

Analysis revealed that the World Federation of Occupational Therapy understands sustainable development as a set of principles and practices that demand cultural change. The policy links ‘Western’ cultural values and environmental crises and obliges occupational therapists, as ethical subjects, to take on new personal and professional values concerning knowledge, evidence and ethics.

Conclusion

Presently, occupational therapists adopting sustainable development principles may appear to be challenging unsustainable occupational therapy practices and expanding the parameters of professional ethics. Further research into the concept of the ethical subject and requirements necessary for the adoption of sustainable cultural values is suggested.