Sustainability

Learn about the three pillars of sustainability and how they intersect in our world.
Introduction to sustainability
Sustainability is about meeting the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to
meet their own needs. It is a complex concept that encompasses environmental, social, and economic
considerations. At its heart, sustainability is about balance: balancing the needs of people, the planet, and prosperity.

Environmental Social Sustainability Economic

Sustainability Sustainability
Inclusive societies that provide
Protecting natural resources and access to social services, Creating opportunities for
reducing carbon emissions are promote social equity and economic growth, job creation
critical components. This helps diversity and foster social and stability while also reducing
sustain ecological systems and dialogue between differing poverty is a key driver of
ensures that natural resources are interests. sustainable development.
available for future generations. Economic prosperity must be
ensure that resources can be
accessed as required.
Environmental sustainability
Environmental sustainability is often thought of as the primary pillar of sustainable development. It involves
managing natural resources and reducing carbon emissions to ensure environmental health, biodiversity and the
continued availability of natural resources for future generations.

An individual has not started living until he can rise above the narrow confines of his individualistic concerns to
the broader concerns of all humanity. - Martin Luther King Jr.

Wind turbines generate clean Recycling conserves natural Solar panels are a renewable
energy resources and reduces carbon source of energy.
emissions
Social sustainability
Social sustainability is about creating inclusive societies that provide access to basic social services, promote social
equity and diversity, and foster social dialogue between differing interests. It is about ensuring that everyone has
access to the resources and opportunities they need to live fulfilling lives.

Governments

play a crucial role in facilitating social

sustainability by implementing policies that
support social inclusion, equity, and cultural
diversity. We cannot achieve sustainable
development without the support of political will.
Only through our collective efforts can we create
societies that are sustainable for all.

1 2 3

Companies Individuals

must integrate their economic, environmental, and can make a difference too by participating in
social goals to achieve sustainable development social organizations, caring for family and friends
goals effectively. Inclusion and diversity lead to and ensuring they receive the support they need,
increased innovation and productivity while also and engaging in collaborative work with their
enhancing corporate reputation and developing local communities.
brand value. Successful social sustainability
efforts align business profitability with social and
environmental responsibility, leading to a healthy
Economic sustainability
Economic sustainability refers to equitable access to resources, job creation, and development as goals. It also
means that the needs of future generations are taken into account when making economic decisions. Economic
sustainability is about balancing economic growth and development to ensure that resources are utilized efficiently
and that limited resources are not depleted.

Resource Preservation Economic Growth Efficient Resource Use

Economic sustainability Improving economic growth The efficient use of resources

focuses on resource is another key goal of to generate optimal profits is
preservation as a key priority. economic sustainability. Job important to ensure
This includes both natural creation, resource utilization profitability while conserving
resources such as land or and balanced investments that resources for the future.
water and non-renewable generate economic prosperity
resources such as fossil fuels. for all are key factors.
Efficient use of resources
ensures that economic
sustainability will continue
into the future.
Sustainable Development Goals
The Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) are a call to action for countries, organizations, and individuals
around the world to work together to end poverty, protect the planet, and ensure that all people can live in peace
and prosperity. The SDGs are a set of 17 goals established by the United Nations General Assembly in 2015 to help
guide global development efforts over an 15 year period (2015-2030).

Goal Description

No Poverty End poverty in all forms everywhere

Zero Hunger End hunger, achieve food security and improved

nutrition, and promote sustainable agriculture

Good Health and Well-being Ensure healthy lives and promote well-being for
all ages.

Quality Education Ensure inclusive and equitable quality education

and promote lifelong learning opportunities for all.

Gender Equality Achieve gender equality and empower all women

and girls.

Clean Water and Sanitation Ensure availability and sustainable management of

water and sanitation for all.

Affordable and Clean Energy Ensure access to affordable, reliable, sustainable,

and modern energy for all.

Decent Work and Economic Growth Promote sustained, inclusive, and sustainable
economic growth, full and productive
Corporate sustainability
Corporate sustainability is about balancing social, environmental, and economic factors in business decision-
making. Sustainability brings many benefits to businesses including a better public image, increased employee
engagement, and a reduced impact on the environment.

Solar panels can help businesses Employees may become more Rain gardens are a great way to
save money on electricity and engaged in their work when they reduce stormwater runoff and
reduce their carbon footprint. are part of a company that is improve water quality, while also
committed to sustainable beautifying a landscaping project.
practices.
Conclusion
Sustainability is about creating a more equitable and sustainable world for all. It is about balancing the needs of
people, the planet, and prosperity. By taking a holistic approach to sustainability, we can solve complex global
problems and create a better world for future generations.