Sustainability definitions

Climate Change

changes to our weather patterns and natural systems due to the increased production of greenhouse gasses

Greenhouse Gasses

Carbon dioxide, methane or nitrous oxide, which are all naturally occurring gases that trap heat in the atmosphere, contributing to the greenhouse effect.

Fossil Fuels

a carbon-containing compound, formed over millions of years, that release greenhouse gasses such as carbon dioxide when burnt.

Carbon Dioxide

a greenhouse gas, produced by the burning of fossil fuels for energy and by the deconstruction of forests and other habitats.

Incineration

the process of burning waste materials, which is sometimes used to generate energy but can also release greenhouse gases.

Finite Resources

natural resources that are limited in supply and cannot be replenished at the same rate they are consumed.

Infinite Resources

natural resources that are abundant and can be replenished naturally over time, such as solar and wind energy.

Waste

any materials that are discarded or no longer needed, often including items like food scraps, plastics, and electronics.

Landfill

a designated area where waste is disposed of by burying it, often leading to environmental concerns such as pollution and habitat destruction.

Ecological Footprint

measures and describes the impact of our activities on the environment.