sustainability
/səsˌteɪnəˈbɪlɪti/
A state of equilibrium where a system can maintain its current level or quality indefinitely without depleting the resources it relies upon. While often associated with ecology, it is a logic of endurance applied to any system—financial, social, or biological. In modern usage, it carries a strong moral and political weight, shifting from a technical term in forestry and biology to a global imperative for survival. It implies a conscious choice to sacrifice immediate, short-term gain for the sake of long-term stability. Distinct from 'conservation', which focuses on protecting what already exists, sustainability focuses on the methodology of use. It is the difference between simply saving a forest (conservation) and managing a forest so it produces timber forever without disappearing (sustainability).
💬Casual Conversation
Hey, are you tracking the Q3 sustainability metrics? We need to nail this.
Uh, yeah, tracking it. Just trying to wrap my head around the 'why' on that.
Meanings
Collocations & Compounds
economic sustainability
The ability of an economy to maintain a certain level of economic activity over the long term.
The company is focused on achieving economic sustainability through responsible financial management.
environmental sustainability
The ability of the environment to continue to function and support life over the long term.
Protecting natural resources is key to ensuring environmental sustainability.
social sustainability
The ability of a society to function and maintain its social structures and well-being over the long term.
Community engagement is vital for social sustainability.
long-term sustainability
The capacity to endure or continue to exist at a satisfactory level for an extended period.
The project's success depends on its long-term sustainability.
corporate sustainability
A business approach that involves integrating environmental, social, and economic considerations into business strategy and operations.
Many businesses are now prioritizing corporate sustainability.
Etymology
The word 'sustainability' comes from the Latin word 'sustinere', meaning 'to hold up, to support, to endure'. It entered English in the late 17th century, initially referring to the act of sustaining something. The modern concept, particularly in environmental and economic contexts, gained prominence in the late 20th century, heavily influenced by reports like 'Our Common Future' (1987) from the Brundtland Commission, which defined sustainable development as development that 'meets the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs.'