Definition of sustainability

- We hear and use the term sustainability all the time. It's become a buzzword. But have you ever stopped to ask what do we actually mean when we say sustainability? The textbook definition of sustainability is economic development that meets the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs. This was the definition put forth in the 1987 United Nations Brundtland Report, Our Common Future, which put sustainability for the first time on the global agenda. This pivotal report put economic growth and environmental preservation as inseparable issues, which together are the foundation of human wellbeing. There are three linked dimensions of sustainability. First is the environmental aspect. This is the foundation of sustainability. Ecosystems such as grasslands, forests, and oceans provide society with critical life supporting goods and services. For example, pollination, water purification, climate regulation, pest control, medicine, and so much more. Maintaining healthy ecosystems is essential to both sustaining economic prosperity and societal wellbeing. Second is the economy. The economy is about how we produce and consume goods and services. It's the markets, the industries, and our livelihoods that enable the economy to grow. But the economy is only as strong as the environment it relies on. A sustainable economy is one that can utilize the goods and services that nature provides without depleting resources. Without harming the environment or perpetuating injustices. For instance, consider overfishing. At first, catching large quantities of fish can seem profitable for the fishing industry. There's an immediate economic boost for the sale of vast amounts of seafood. However, removing too many fish from the ocean can lead to the collapse of the fish population. And what happens then? Fisheries can close, leading to job losses. Seafood prices might skyrocket, making it unaffordable for many consumers. And it's not just about the fish. The health of the entire marine ecosystem can be jeopardized, affecting other industries like tourism. The third dimension is society. This social dimension of sustainability is not just about ensuring everybody's basic needs are met today, but about creating systems of equity and opportunity that remain robust across generations. Societies full of disparities, inequalities, or injustices, are inherently unstable, and more prone to conflicts and crises. Factors that constrain resources, ecosystems, and economic structures. A truly sustainable society works to eliminate disparities and guarantees equitable access to opportunities, ensuring not just the morality of actions, but the enduring stability and resilience of the entire system. In summary, sustainability has three dimensions. The environment, the economy, and society. They're interconnected. Each dimension affects and depends on the other. When one thrives, it positively impacts the others. But when one suffers, it can strain the entire system.