Environmental sustainability: Nurturing our planet for future generations

Environmental sustainability is a concept that has gained significant attention and importance in recent decades. It represents the responsible and ethical use of our planet's resources to meet our needs, rather than our wants, and the well-being of the present population, without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own basic needs and well-being. In a world marked by rapid population growth, industrialisation, aggressive changes in land use and the consequences of climate change, environmental sustainability has become not just a choice but a necessity.

Environmental sustainability rests on three fundamental pillars: social, economic and environmental sustainability. These pillars form an interconnected framework that guides individuals, communities, businesses, and governments in making decisions that balance the needs of people, biodiversity and the planet. The notion that sustainability does only focus on the environment is a misconception, as it is based on three dimensions:

Firstly, environmental sustainability which occurs when humanity’s rate of consumption does not exceed nature’s rate of replenishment of resources and when humanity’s rate of generating pollution and emitting greenhouse gases does not exceed nature’s rate of restoration, which is called zero-carbon level that implies balancing the emission of greenhouse gases (like carbon dioxide) with their removal rate and techniques, such as through carbon sequestration in forests or carbon capture and storage technologies.

Secondly, social sustainability is the ability of a society to uphold universal human rights, social cohesion and democracy and meet people's basic needs, such as clean water, food, shelter, healthcare, transportation and education. Healthy social communities ensure citizen`s cultural rights, dignity and protects them from discrimination. A socially sustainable society is one where opportunities are accessible to all emphasizing social equity and justice.

Thirdly, economic sustainability is the ability of human communities around the world to maintain their independence and have access to local and foreign resources required to meet their needs; meaning that secure sources of livelihood are available to everyone. Economic sustainability seeks to create economic systems that can persist over time, which requires developing economies that are robust, adaptable and not reliant on the depletion of finite resources. It also involves responsible financial management, job creation and fostering innovation. A sustainable economy promotes long-term prosperity without sacrificing environmental or social well-being.

Environmental sustainability revolves around responsible stewardship of the natural world. It involves conserving biodiversity, reducing pollution, minimising waste and mitigating climate change, among others. Achieving environmental sustainability means using resources efficiently and regenerating ecosystems rather than exhausting them. The rapid consumption of finite resources, such as freshwater, minerals, and fossil fuels, is unsustainable as these resources become scarcer by time and population growth triggering the potential for conflicts and economic instability. The world's population continues to grow, putting additional strain on resources and ecosystems, therefore sustainable solutions must also consider the needs of a growing global community.

Challenges to environmental sustainability include climate change caused by burning fossil fuels, the built environment, and industrial processes which release greenhouse gases into the atmosphere, trapping heat and causing rise in global temperatures. The consequences include more frequent and severe weather events, rising sea levels and threats to ecosystems and human communities. Challenges also include pollution of air, water, and soil that harm human health, ecosystems, and wildlife; stretching from anthropogenic emissions to plastic, chemical and radioactive waste which forms a significant threat to environmental sustainability. Human activities, such as habitat destruction, deforestation, overfishing, and the introduction of invasive species, have also led to a significant decline in biodiversity, eventually diminishing the beauty and resilience of our planet and disrupting vital ecosystems that support life on Earth.

Addressing environmental sustainability requires concerted efforts from individuals, communities, businesses and governments. A critical step in mitigating climate change effect is transitioning from fossil fuels to clean, renewable energy sources like solar, wind, hydrogen and hydroelectric power. Also, protecting natural habitats and reforestation; sustainable farming and agriculture can help restore biodiversity and sequester carbon. Adopting practices that reduce waste and maximise resource efficiency is essential; this includes water and energy conservation, and responsible mining. Raising awareness and educating people about the importance of sustainability is a key approach to driving behavioural change; environmental literacy empowers individuals to make informed choices.

Many environmental issues are global in scope, such as climate change, pollution of rivers and oceans, therefore international collaboration, protocols, funds, panels and agreements are essential to address these challenges effectively. Governments play a crucial role in setting policies and regulations that incentivize sustainable practices. These can include carbon pricing, setting emission standards, and habitat conservation laws.  Businesses have a responsibility to minimise their environmental impact through sustainable supply chains, green and circular economies, green technologies, and ethical business practices; a responsibility that ought to be enforced by laws. Local communities can lead sustainability efforts by promoting recycling programs, energy and water efficiency, clean energy production, clean-up events, reforestation, afforestation, sustainable urban planning, greener transportation and waste reduction programmes.

Environmental sustainability is not just about protecting the planet; it offers numerous benefits to society and the economy, such as improved quality of life, cleaner air, water, and greener spaces that enhance the well-being of individuals and communities. Sustainable houses and industries, wildlife conservations, botanical gardens, aquaponic, hydroponic and organic agriculture can all encourage eco-tourism, create jobs and stimulate economic growth. Above all, sustainable practices make societies more resilient to environmental shocks, natural disasters and economic crises. It is important to reach a conviction that sustainable economies are less vulnerable to resource scarcity, climate change and environmental disasters.

In conclusion, environmental sustainability is a vital framework for ensuring the well-being of our planet and future generations. It requires balancing social equity, economic prosperity, and environmental stewardship. While challenges like climate change and resource depletion are daunting, they can present opportunities for innovation and cooperation. By taking proactive steps and embracing sustainable practices, we can nurture our planet and leave a legacy of responsible stewardship for those who come after us.

Ayoub Abu Dayyeh is an energy and green building consultant