Québec’s recent history has been marked by numerous social actors who have sought to promote an alternative economic model based on more human and ecological values. The creation by Alphonse Desjardins of the caisses populaires, the establishment of large farm co-operatives, the nationalization of corporations such as Hydro-Québec and the Société des alcools du Québec—these are all examples of an economy based not on the desire for profit, but on a concern for collective well-being. The Centre for Sustainable Development follows firmly in this tradition of economic projects that integrate social and environmental concerns.
Though very strong in Québec, this movement is not well known. To help remedy this, the Centre for Sustainable Development plans to establish a window into the social economy through initiatives such as the distribution of relevant information at its sustainable development kiosk and by offering social economy organizations both a showcase and a meeting place.
