Understanding / Defining Sustainability

Question 1

Planetary Boundaries

Answer 1

Planetary boundaries define a safe operating space for the following categories:
- Climate Change
- Novel Entities
- Stratospheric Ozone Depletion
- Atmospheric Ozone Depletion
- Ocean acidification
- Biogeochemical Flows
- Freshwater Change
- Land-System Change
- Biosphere Integrity
In 2023 these 9 Boundaries were assessed, 6 were crossed.

Question 2

Definitions of Sustainability

Answer 2

Stanford: Ability to meet the needs of people not just in the near but over the long term

McGill: Meeting the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs

United Nations: Three different categories: economic growth, social inclusion and environmental protection

Question 3

UN SDGs

Answer 3

United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.
1. No Poverty
2. Zero Hunger
3. Good Health and Well Being
4. Quality Education
5. Gender Equality
6. Clean Water and Sanitation
7. Affordable and Clean Energy
8. Decent Work and Economic Growth
9. Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure
10. Reduce Inequalities
11. Sustainable Cities and Communities
12. Responsible Consumption and Production
13. Climate Action
14. Life Below Water
15. Life on Land
17. Partnerships for the Goals
18. Peace, Justice and strong Institutions