Chapter 1 - Concepts and significance of sustainability

What is sustainability?

Meeting present needs without compromising future generations.

What is sustainable development?

Development that balances environmental, social, and economic needs.

What are the three pillars of sustainability?

Environmental, Social, Economic sustainability is needed for a healthy economy

What are the UN SDGs?

17 global goals to guide sustainability efforts.

Why are SDGs important?

They provide a global framework for solving sustainability challenges.

SDGs – People (basic needs): 2

• Quality Education

• Gender Equality

SDGs – Planet (environment): 2

• Clean Water & Sanitation

• Climate Action

SDGs – Prosperity (economy)

• Decent Work & Economic Growth

• Industry, Innovation & Infrastructure

SDGs – Peace & Partnerships: 2

• Peace, Justice & Strong Institutions

• Partnerships for the Goals

What is the Anthropocene?

The time period in which humans have become the main force changing the Earth and its environment.

What are planetary boundaries?

Environmental limits we must not exceed.

What is the “safe operating space”?

The zone between social needs and environmental limits (planetary boundaries).

What is Doughnut Economics?

Society should aim to stay in the “doughnut”:

1. Inner ring - Everyone’s basic needs (e.g food, water, housing, education, healthcare)

2. Outer ring - Planetary boundaries (e.g climate, pollution, biodiversity)

What happens if we exceed planetary boundaries?

Environmental damage.

What is a circular economy?

A system that reduces waste and keeps resources in use via: Reduce, reuse, recycle, replace

What are the 4 Rs?

Reduce, Reuse, Recycle, Replace.

What is green growth?

Economic growth without environmental damage.

What is degrowth?

Reducing consumption to prioritise sustainability and wellbeing.

Why is infinite growth a problem?

The planet has finite resources.

Name key sustainability challenges.

Climate change, pollution, waste, inequality.

What is a stakeholder?

Anyone with an interest in a business.

Name three types of stakeholders + roles & examples

Internal: E.g employees, managers - Drive daily operations

Connected: E.g customers - Influence through voting rights and & purchasing decisions

External: E.g government, local authorities - Hold power over public relations and reputation

Why are stakeholders important?

They influence business decisions and sustainability actions.

Why is nature a unique stakeholder?

It has non-negotiable environmental limits.

How does circular economy improve sustainability?

Reduces waste and resource use.

What is a key conflict in sustainability?

Profit vs social/environmental responsibility.