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Sustainability is the capability to equitably meet the vital human needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs by preserving and protecting ecosystems and natural resources. The concept of sustainability describes a condition in which human use of natural resources, required for the continuation of life, is in balance with Nature’s ability to replenish them.
Planning for sustainability promotes responsible development - not anti-development. Specifically, planning for sustainability includes the following processes, practices and outcomes.
Sustainability Planning processes include making decisions to reduce the “carbon footprint” of the project and the following:
- Making planning decisions in a holistic and fully-informed manner that involves all segments of the Design and Construction community and the public and private sectors.
Sustainability Planning practices can result in reduced material and operating costs and better working environments for occupants by:
- Developing a future-oriented vision for the project, that looks beyond current needs and recognizes environmental strategies and long-term cost savings.
- Fostering projects that promote economic development by: efficiently and equitably distributing resources and goods; minimizing, reusing and recycling waste; and protecting natural ecosystems.
- Upholding a widely held ethic of stewardship that strongly encourages individuals and organizations to take full responsibility for the economic, environmental, and social consequences of their actions, balancing individual needs and wants with nature and the public good.
- Taking leadership in the drafting and implementation of local, regional and state policies that support sustainability.
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