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The Environmental Protection Agency defines sustainability as, “meeting the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs.” A favored pitch from grist.org is, “Environmentalism is waking up every day breathing clean air, drinking safe water, eating healthy food, having a real vote, and knowing that your grandkids -- and theirs -- will too.” There are many more that are much more humorous or even snappy, but this one sums it up nicely. Another nice way I like to think of it is, “Think of the Earth as a great bank whose funds are natural beauty and resources. Environmentalists are certified financial advisors. They give free advice about maintaining and increasing our wealth.” I am striving to become a certified financial advisor, er, uh, as far as the environment is concerned. I already have somewhat of a decent perception of good ideas vs. bad ideas when it comes to the planet but my awareness is constantly expanding.
Sustainability is a science like any other. You must be careful of what you hear, read and even see. It’s all about trial and error. The unique concept of sustainability incorporates sociology, ecology and the economy. That’s why this science is so broad and so important. It’s about time someone tied in all these sciences into one because ultimately, it makes sense. To those who do not refer to themselves as environmentalists are surely concerned with the sociology to which they belong and very likely concerned with economic effects that concern them. Environmentalists biggest break through was the realization that what they care about most really does affect everyone on this planet. sustainability is the formula which reveals this.
