The Earth’s temperature is rising, posing escalating threats to life and ecosystems. Social and economic disparities, both globally and locally, persist at alarming levels. The term “sustainability” has emerged as a suggested remedy to these challenges: by transitioning our systems to sustainable practices, we aim to lessen carbon emissions and resource consumption while promoting fairness in society for everyone.
But, what is the true essence of sustainability, and how far along are we in achieving it?
Understanding Sustainability
The concept of sustainability was articulated by the United Nations Brundtland Commission in 1987 as “meeting the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs,” a definition that remains pertinent today.
As Beatrice Olivastri, CEO of Friends of the Earth Canada, states, “Sustainability signifies that we should not limit future generations’ ability to enjoy a quality of life equal to, or superior, to ours.” This demands a dedication to fairness across generations.
Although the term “sustainability” has gained traction recently, its underlying principles are not new; Indigenous groups have long embraced the idea of caring for the environment to ensure the welfare of the upcoming seven generations.
Environmental Sustainability
This aspect emphasizes the necessity of safeguarding and conserving natural resources—such as clean air, water, forests, and biodiversity—to ensure they remain viable for future generations.
When we consider transitions, such as moving towards renewable energy instead of fossil fuels or minimizing waste generation, we often focus on this aspect of sustainability most directly.
According to Olivastri, the health of the environment is paramount to the criteria for sustainability, as thriving ecosystems are crucial for the well-being of human societies and economies.
Economic Sustainability and the Environment
Economic sustainability is about fostering economic growth while ensuring that resources are utilized wisely and ethically. The manner in which we manage our resource flows significantly affects the environment.
Current economic systems tend to be linear, adhering to a “take-make-use-dispose” model for most products, effectively creating a direct path from manufacture to waste.
While some progress has been made towards recycling economies—where products are recycled until they can no longer be utilized—it is often insufficient. A 2019 study revealed that only 9 percent of the 3.3 million tonnes of plastic discarded by Canadians each year is recycled.
To achieve true economic sustainability, there is a need to embrace a circular economy, which keeps products and resources in use without degrading their value, differing from the recycling model that ultimately leads to disposal.
Presently, merely 7.2 percent of the global economy is circular, underscoring the extensive journey ahead to transition to this model.
Social Sustainability
While the environmental facets often dominate discussions of sustainability, the social aspect is equally vital. Social sustainability focuses on fostering a society where individuals can fulfill their social, cultural, and spiritual requirements while enjoying a good quality of life.
This involves ensuring fairness in transitions towards more environmentally sustainable methodologies. For example, farmers moving away from industrial food practices should have opportunities to acquire new skills or explore different avenues of meaningful employment.
The Quest for Environmental Justice
Integral to social sustainability is the notion of environmental justice, which underscores the disproportionate impact of climate change and pollution on vulnerable communities. The Canadian government is currently devising a strategy to enhance environmental justice for low-income, racialized, and Indigenous groups who are frequently more adversely affected by damaging industrial practices and climate-related challenges.
Olivastri highlights an instance involving a plastic manufacturing facility in Southwestern Ontario that was compelled to cease operations after being mandated by the government to mitigate emissions of a detrimental chemical adversely affecting the Aamjiwnaang First Nation’s health.
Pursuing a Sustainable Future
While personal contributions to sustainability are crucial, the roles of governments and corporations cannot be overlooked.
Government Initiatives and Responsibility
In 2015, Canada committed to achieving the 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) set by the United Nations, aimed for completion by 2030. These goals encompass various aspects of environmental, economic, and social sustainability, such as promoting gender equality and safeguarding biodiversity.
Though some progress is being made in Canada towards these SDGs, significant work remains, especially in addressing ongoing disparities for Indigenous and racialized communities, working-age singles, female-led single-parent households, and people with disabilities. Additionally, rising emissions from oil and gas sectors hinder Canada’s climate commitments.
Corporate Responsibility and Influence
A recent analysis indicated that from 2016 to 2022, 80 percent of global carbon dioxide emissions stemmed from just 57 corporate and state companies.
This illustrates the profound impact corporations have on sustainability. Many of these entities invest heavily in lobbying efforts aimed at persuading governments to maintain practices that are environmentally and socially harmful; reports indicate that oil and gas lobbyists met with Canadian government officials nearly five times daily in 2023.
Olivastri expresses particular concern about how sustainability initiatives have often been “captured” by corporate interests.
Individual Empowerment
While systemic change is essential, individuals also hold considerable power. Olivastri urges active participation in community sustainability efforts.
“Whether your community is focusing on plastic waste management or assessing the establishment of a new polluting enterprise, these are moments where engagement is crucial,” she advises.
Navigating corporate sustainability claims can be challenging, as many businesses employ “greenwashing” tactics to enhance the perceived sustainability of their offerings.
When you encounter vague descriptions of environmentally friendly products, Olivastri suggests maintaining a skeptical view. “Question the basis of such claims. Can they substantiate them? Can you?”
This perspective encourages viewing oneself as a citizen with rights and obligations toward the environment, rather than just a consumer.
While striving for personal sustainability, it is equally vital to recognize the shifts that must occur within governmental and corporate spheres. For those with the privilege to advocate vocally and exercise voting rights, these actions are vital for holding those in power accountable.
This article was originally featured in the April 2025 edition of Intomodel magazine.
