Stewardship

Stewardship is an ethic that embodies the responsible planning and management of resources. The concepts of stewardship can be applied to the environment, economics, health, property, information, religion etc. Stewardship is often linked to the principles of sustainability.

History of the term

Stewardship originally comprised the tasks of a domestic steward. Stewardship initially referred to the household servant’s duties for bringing food and drink to the castle’s dining hall. Stewardship responsibilities were eventually expanded to encompass the domestic, service and management needs of the entire household. Commercial stewardship tends to the domestic and service requirements of passengers on ships, trains, airplanes or guests in restaurants. This concept of stewardship continues to be referenced within these specific categories. Stewardship is now generally recognized as the acceptance or assignment of responsibility to shepherd and safeguard the valuables of others. See also the definition in international standard ISO 20121 - Event sustainability management system - Requirements with giudance for use; par. 3.20: "responsibility for sustainable development shared by all those whose actions affect environmental performance. economic activity, and social progress, reflected as both a value and a practice by individuals, organisations. communities, and competent authorities."

See also

• Stewardship (theology)
• Data steward
• Product stewardship
• Nuclear stockpile stewardship
• Stewardship theory
• Marine Stewardship Council
• Forest Stewardship Council
• Safer Detergents Stewardship Initiative