Sustainability

Flashcards related to sustainability concepts and frameworks, based on lecture notes.

Sustainability

The ability of a system to endure and remain viable over time.

Sustainability (in socio-ecological systems)

Responsible practices that ensure resources are not depleted and conditions for future generations are not compromised.

The three pillars of sustainability

Environmental, social, and economic sustainability.

Weak sustainability models

Models that only show an overlap in the three pillars of sustainability, without considering intricate relationships.

Strong sustainability models

Models that emphasize the interconnectivity of the three pillars, showing the economy nested within society and both nested within the natural environment.

Resource management

Practices that allow for the replacement of resources used, such as sustainable forestry.

Pollution control

Efforts that aim to minimize pollution and its harmful effects on ecosystems and human health.

Biodiversity conservation

Preserving biodiversity ensures the resilience of ecosystems and supports their ability to adapt to changing conditions.

Active regeneration

Interventions aimed at restoring degraded ecosystems to a more natural state.

Ecosystem services

Sustainable practices recognize the value of these services, such as clean water and air purification.

Long-term perspectives (Environmental sustainability)

Consideration of long-term impacts and planning for the continued health and resilience of ecosystems.

Community development

Sustainable communities prioritize equitable access to resources, services, and opportunities for all members.

Cultural preservation

Efforts to maintain cultural traditions, languages, and practices that contribute to the identity and cohesion of societies.

Health and education (Social sustainability)

Access to healthcare, education, and other essential services.

Resource efficiency

Sustainable economic practices prioritize resource efficiency, reducing waste and environmental impacts.

Long-term planning (Economic sustainability)

Requires planning for the long term, considering factors like resource availability and market stability.

Equitable growth

Seeks to reduce inequalities and ensure fair distribution of resources and opportunities.

Sustainable development

A concept that aims to balance economic, social, and environmental factors.

Sustainable agriculture

Using techniques that minimize the negative impact of agriculture on the environment.

Sustainable urban planning

Creating cities that are more liveable, efficient, and environmentally friendly.

Brundtland Report

A report that introduced the idea of sustainable development in 1987.

Newfoundland cod fisheries

Advancements in fishing technology led to a rapid population decline of this species.

Green GDP

Adjusts traditional GDP calculations by accounting for environmental costs and depletion of natural resources.

Environmental justice

The right of all people to live in a pollution-free environment and have equitable access to natural resources.

Environmental injustice

The unequal distribution of environmental burdens and benefits.

Altgeld Gardens Landfill

A predominantly African American low-income neighborhood on Chicago's South Side facing environmental injustices.

Global environmental injustice (plastic waste)

When developed countries export their plastic waste to developing nations.

Sustainability indicators

Quantitative measures used to assess various aspects of sustainability.

Ecological footprint

A theoretical concept that assesses the environmental impact of human populations.

Biocapacity

The amount of resources that the planet can provide sustainably.

Carbon footprint

Measures the amount of greenhouse gases produced by an activity.

Water footprint

Measures the amount of water used to produce goods and services.

Citizen science

Involves members of the public participating in scientific research projects.

Open Air Laboratories (OPAL) network

Engages citizens in monitoring environmental issues in their local areas (UK).

GLOBE Programme

Involves students and citizens in collecting and sharing environmental data globally.

The Big Garden Birdwatch

An annual citizen science event where participants record bird species visiting their gardens (UK).

2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development

A plan for peace and prosperity for people and the planet, now and into the future.

UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)

A comprehensive set of social and environmental objectives to address global challenges.

Planetary Boundaries Model

Outlines nine critical processes and systems that regulate Earth's stability.

Climate change (Planetary Boundary)

Alteration of Earth's climate system due to human activity.

Erosion of biosphere integrity

Reduction in Earth's variety of life due to human activity.

Biogeochemical flows

Disruption of natural nutrient cycles due to agriculture and industry.

Doughnut Economics Model

A framework for building an economy that meets the needs of all people within the ecological limits of the planet.

Regenerative economy

An economy that works within the natural cycles and limits of the planet.

Distributive economy

An economy that shares value and opportunities more equitably among all stakeholders.

Environmental justice

The right of all people to live in a pollution-free environment and have equitable access to natural resources.