SUSTAINABILITY & STAYING WITHIN THE PLANETARY BOUNDARIES

Question 1

Define sustainability, and describe the three components of a sustainable society.

Answer 1

• Sustainability is the ability to endure, thrive, and regenerate without overburdening Earth’s living systems. The three components of a sustainable society involve environmental stewardship, social equity, and economic prosperity

Question 2

Recognize the 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Answer 2

• The 17 SDGs are a shared blueprint for global peace and prosperity. They cover a range of interconnected issues, including poverty, hunger, health, education, gender equality, clean water, sanitation, climate action, and more

Question 3

Give an example of a nature-based solution to climate change.

Answer 3

• Nature-based solutions to climate change include activities like reforestation, afforestation, and ecosystem restoration, which enhance natural carbon sinks and biodiversity. These solutions are not explicitly mentioned in the slides but are relevant to staying within planetary boundaries.

Question 4

Explain why the concept of “waste” is unique to human systems.

Answer 4

• Waste is unique to human systems because, unlike natural ecosystems where expelled matter is recycled, human systems produce products no longer wanted, leading to the concept of waste.

Question 5

Explain the concept of an ecological footprint.

Answer 5

• The ecological footprint measures the impact of individuals, nations, and institutions on the planet. It expresses the amount of land required to support their use of natural resources.

Question 6

Describe choices individuals can make to minimize their ecological footprint, and explain which planetary boundaries they address.

Answer 6

• Individuals can minimize their ecological footprint by making sustainable choices such as reducing energy consumption, using renewable resources, and minimizing waste. These actions contribute to staying within planetary boundaries by addressing issues like climate change, biodiversity loss, and resource depletion.