Sustainability
Sustainability deals with the continuity of the economic, social, and institutional
aspects ofhuman society while at the same time preserving biodiversity and the environment.
Sustainable activities seek to provide the best outcomes for both human
societies and natural ecosystems. Several issues are common to both interests:
• Consideration of risk, uncertainty, and irreversibiliry
• Ensuring appropriate valuation, appreciation, and restoration of nature
• Integration of environmental, social, and economic goals in policies and activities
• Equal opportunity and community participation
• Conservation of biodiversity and ecological integrity
• A commitment to best practice
• No net loss to either human or natural capital
• Continuous improvement
• The need for good governance
Unlimited economic and population growth puts many demands on natural
resources. Its effects on pollution and the carrying capacity ofEarth are factors that
impact sustainability. These are all analyzed using life cycle assessments and ecological
footprint analyses.