Sustainable Meaning
Sustainable Definition & Usage
Capable of being maintained or continued over the long term without exhausting resources or causing harm to the environment.
Examples
- "The company implemented sustainable practices to reduce its carbon footprint."
- "They built a sustainable home using energy-efficient materials and solar panels."
- "We need to invest in sustainable farming methods to ensure food security for future generations."
- "Sustainable tourism is essential to protect fragile ecosystems while allowing visitors to enjoy them."
- "The government is focusing on developing sustainable cities that minimize environmental impact."
Able to be maintained at a certain level or rate without resulting in financial loss or negative outcomes.
Examples
- "The business model is sustainable, generating profits without compromising its values."
- "They are exploring sustainable growth strategies to ensure the company's longevity."
- "The startup focuses on sustainable development, balancing financial stability with environmental responsibility."
- "A sustainable approach to resource management ensures that the company stays profitable while reducing waste."
- "By reinvesting profits, the company maintains a sustainable financial model."
Cultural Context
The term 'sustainable' has become a key concept in environmentalism, economics, and social policy. It gained widespread prominence in the late 20th century with the rise of environmental consciousness and sustainable development goals. The word emphasizes the need to preserve resources and maintain balance across environmental, economic, and social domains.
The Green Horizon
Story
The Green Horizon
In the bustling city of Greenhaven, a new initiative was taking root. Emma, a passionate architect, had spent years designing buildings that were both aesthetically pleasing and environmentally friendly. She believed that sustainability wasn’t just a buzzword; it was a way of life. As she walked through her latest project, a sprawling eco-village designed to house 500 families, she felt a sense of pride. Solar panels covered the rooftops, and rainwater harvesting systems were integrated into the design. 'This is what the future looks like,' she thought, as she observed the children playing in the lush, green spaces surrounded by renewable energy sources. Across the street, Marcus, the owner of a local café, had always dreamed of running a sustainable business. He sourced his ingredients from local organic farms and used biodegradable packaging. 'Every small change counts,' he often said. Today, he was introducing a new line of plant-based meals that would be affordable and accessible to everyone in the community. He knew that running a sustainable business was more than just about profits—it was about ensuring that future generations could thrive in a cleaner, healthier world. As the sun set over the city, Emma and Marcus met for coffee to discuss their vision for Greenhaven’s future. They were both committed to making sure that their work was sustainable, not just in terms of the environment, but also in terms of economic viability and social equity. Together, they knew they could make a lasting impact on the city’s future, ensuring that it was a place where people could live, work, and thrive without compromising the planet. The story of Greenhaven was just beginning, but its foundation was built on the principles of sustainability—on both a local and global scale.