Welcome to the SPE Sustainable Development Technical Section (SDTS)
The SDTS brings together SPE members who are committed to advancing the future of energy through strong sustainability, systems thinking, and technically grounded action.
We are the home of the SPE Gaia Sustainability Program, co-created by SPE members to empower engineers, scientists, and energy professionals to confidently engage with the world’s most urgent sustainability challenges. Gaia helps our community learn, collaborate, ask better questions, and develop solutions that keep the industry on the right side of history.
What We Focus On
- Transform the Energy System – People and technology shaping a resilient future
- Measure What Matters – Metrics for action, impact, and accountability
- Regenerate Natural Capital – Protecting and restoring ecological foundations
- Enable a People-Centered Transition – Supporting workforce, communities, and society
These themes are supported by two enabling behaviors essential to strong sustainability: Engage & Listen and Collaborate to Innovate.
How We Engage
Each offering provides a safe, non-hierarchical space to learn, explore ideas, and connect with diverse expertise — from operators and researchers to activists and policy leaders.
Why It Matters
Humanity is operating close to — and in many cases beyond — the planet’s safe boundaries. SDTS exists to help SPE members develop the knowledge, confidence, and agency needed to accelerate meaningful progress while ensuring reliable energy for the world.
SDTS Sustainability Transformed
Read reflections from SDTS past chairperson Trey Shaffer on SPE’s journey in sustainability leadership.
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Join Us
Whether you are at the beginning of your sustainability journey or driving transformational change, SDTS offers a global community where you can learn, contribute, and help move the needle — not just tick boxes.