Dear clients and other stakeholders,
As representatives of The Natural Step International, we can inform you that our Dutch office through the legal entity Stichting The Natural Step Nederland recently encountered a financial dispute, leading to its recent bankruptcy as declared by local court on June 4th 2024.
We have been and still are taking steps, to better understand the context and address the issues. The first phase of our ongoing investigation is closing, based on the results, we will determine the next steps in dialogue with all TNS council members as soon as possible.
As this requires capacity, effort, time, and resources from TNSi and others, we truly appreciate the patience from all stakeholders, and the willingness and commitment from all parties involved to abide by our rules and agreements, especially those around TNS IP and trademark. Not respecting these rules and agreements will increase the risk for future legal action.
Currently, no one is formally authorised to represent The Natural Step in The Netherlands, except for/ through specific assets that are condoned in alignment with the curator, and those formally attached to other offices.
Having said that, one of the two disputing parties, the seasoned senior advisor in the Dutch office, Mrs. Suzanne Wacanno, with her proposal was awarded by the curator the acquisition of key assets originally belonging to the Stichting TNS NL. Pending TNSi council decisions, and her application process, to ensure the continuation of high-quality TNS-related services for existing Dutch clients, and to support her work, we allow Mrs. Wacanno to use those assets[1] and to continue providing her services with her team of accredited TNS advisors[2]. The Natural Step remains committed to its mission of accelerating the change towards a sustainable world. We will continue keeping our stakeholders informed of the developments related to The Netherlands. We appreciate your understanding and patience as we work through these challenges.
Should you have any questions or need further information, please do not hesitate to contact The Natural Step International board at inquiry-nl@thenaturalstep.org.
Thank you for your continued trust and support.
Sincerely,
Antonio Vasconcelos Lin Zhang
TNSi Board Chairman TNSi Treasurer
The Natural Step International
[1] TNSi is bound to following due process. Meanwhile, we allow representation through, use and provision of, www.thenaturalstep.nl, thenaturalstep.nl formal email addresses, the TNS e-learning, and continuation of service of existing TNS-related clients.
[2] Individuals are not allowed to represent themselves as TNS Associates without prior permission by TNS or its authorised members. Accredited TNS advisors have followed appropriate training in TNS framework, methods and tools, and have relevant proven experience to support you, and associate status can be verified with TNSi.