Sustainability – IOM3

Sustainability is a much over used word at risk of being perceived as one size fits all. Sustainable development requires an integrated approach that takes into consideration environmental concerns along with economic development.   

In 1987, the United Nations Brundtland Commission defined sustainability as ‘meeting the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs’, and this is just as valid now. The world has to seek ways to meet the development needs, but with the increasing threat of climate change, concerted efforts must be made to ensure development today does not negatively affect future generations. One of the key pillars is that society has to consume less, in a more efficient manner, however that is defined and in ways that do not discriminate.  

Sustainability is concerned with protecting the planet, halting climate change and promoting social development, without endangering life on Earth or leaving anyone behind. The role of people working with, and part of, the materials cycle will be pivotal in all of this. We have to look as to how we provide for our present needs without compromising resources for future generations.