Sustainability
səˌsteɪnəˈbɪlɪti
Definitions
The ability to be maintained at a certain rate or level. This applies to various aspects, including ecological balance, economic development, and social systems. It emphasizes the responsible use of resources to meet present needs without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their needs.
səˌsteɪnəˈbɪlɪti
The ability to be maintained at a certain rate or level.
The company is committed to the sustainability of its operations.
💡 Simply: Sustainability is like making sure things last! Imagine you're playing with toys. Sustainability means playing with them so that you can still play with them tomorrow, and the day after, and so on. It's about using resources wisely so that we can keep enjoying them.
👶 For kids: Making sure something can keep going and not run out.
More Examples
Researchers are investigating the sustainability of renewable energy sources.
Achieving true sustainability requires a holistic approach that considers environmental, social, and economic factors.
How It's Used
"The focus of the environmental report was on the sustainability of the current fishing practices."
"Companies are increasingly integrating sustainability into their business models to ensure long-term financial stability."
Idioms & expressions
Environmental sustainability
The ability of the environment to support a defined level of environmental processes and functions for all time.
"Environmental sustainability is a critical goal for many organizations."
Economic sustainability
The ability of an economy to support a defined level of economic processes and functions for all time.
"Economic sustainability is dependent on sound business practices."
Social sustainability
The ability of a social system, such as a country, to function at a defined level of social processes and functions for all time.
"Social sustainability depends on the inclusivity of social welfare programs."
From Middle English susten(en) (to uphold) and -ability (capacity). The concept gained prominence in the late 20th century, particularly in environmental and economic contexts.
The term became widely used in the late 20th and early 21st centuries, especially in environmental discussions and policy-making.
Memory tip
Think of a bridge that can sustain its weight and traffic over time, or a food source that can last for the long haul.
Practice
Word Origin
Root: sus- (from 'sustinere'), meaning 'to hold up', 'to support'