Grasping Sustainability
The Earth is experiencing rising temperatures, putting both life and ecosystems in greater jeopardy. Social and economic disparities, both between and within nations, remain excessively high. The term “sustainability” has often been presented as a remedy for these issues: by transitioning our systems to be more sustainable, we can lower carbon emissions and resource consumption while fostering equity across societies.
Yet, what does sustainability truly entail, and what advancements are we making toward achieving it?
Understanding Sustainability
The United Nations Brundtland Commission defined sustainability in 1987 as “fulfilling the needs of the present without compromising future generations’ ability to meet their own needs”—a definition that continues to resonate today.
According to Beatrice Olivastri, CEO of Friends of the Earth Canada, “Sustainability means ensuring that future generations have a quality of life equal to or better than ours.” This entails a commitment to equity across generations.
Even though the term “sustainability” is a modern construct, the principles behind it have been embraced for centuries; for example, Indigenous cultures have long understood the importance of protecting our planet for the benefit of the seven generations that follow.
Environmental Sustainability
This aspect emphasizes the necessity for environmental protection and the prudent use of natural resources—such as clean air, water, forests, and biodiversity—so they can continue to sustain life for future generations.
When considering changes, such as the transition to renewable energy and reducing waste, this dimension of sustainability is frequently at the forefront.
Olivastri asserts that the health of our ecosystems is paramount for sustainable living, as thriving ecosystems are the foundation for prosperous human societies and economies.
The Economy’s Link to Sustainability
Economic sustainability focuses on fostering growth while guaranteeing that resources are utilized both efficiently and responsibly. The configuration of our resource flows greatly influences our environmental health.
Presently, many economies operate on a linear model characterized by a “take-make-use-dispose” approach. This leads to a straightforward trajectory from production to waste.
Some movements have emerged toward recycling models where products are processed extensively before disposal, such as cardboard being recycled up to 20 times before its fibers deteriorate.
However, these recycling initiatives often fall short: a 2019 study found that only 9 percent of the 3.3 million tons of plastic discarded annually in Canada is recycled.
To evolve into truly sustainable economies, a transition to a circular economy, which retains resources in circulation while preserving their value, is imperative—moving away from the cycle of recycling to disposal.
Currently, a mere 7.2 percent of the global economy is circular, signifying a substantial gap to fill in this transition.
Social Sustainability
While environmental concerns often take center stage in discussions around sustainability, the social aspect is equally crucial. Social sustainability focuses on ensuring that all individuals can fulfill their social, cultural, and spiritual needs while enjoying a high quality of life.
This involves upholding fairness during transitions towards environmentally sustainable practices. For instance, farmers moving away from industrial food production should have access to skill development and alternative career opportunities.
Environmental Justice
A significant aspect of social sustainability is environmental justice, which emphasizes that marginalized communities disproportionately suffer from climate change and pollution. The Canadian government is formulating a strategy to advocate for environmental justice for low-income, racialized, and Indigenous populations, who are often at higher risk from adverse industrial practices and climate change impacts.
Olivastri references a case in which a plastic production facility in Southwestern Ontario was compelled to shut down due to a governmental directive to limit emissions of hazardous chemicals affecting the local Aamjiwnaang First Nation’s health.
Striving for a More Sustainable Future
While individual actions toward sustainability are vital, governments and corporations hold significant sway in this area.
Government Actions and Pledges
In 2015, the Canadian government pledged to realize the 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) set forth by the United Nations, intended for completion by 2030. These goals encompass aspects of environmental, economic, and social sustainability—such as ensuring gender equity and safeguarding biodiversity.
While progress has been made on some SDGs, substantial challenges remain, particularly regarding enduring inequalities faced by Indigenous and racialized persons, working-age singles, single-parent families led by women, and individuals with disabilities. Rising emissions from the oil and gas sector also hinder Canada’s efforts to fulfill its climate promises.
The Impact of Corporations
A recent study disclosed that from 2016 to 2022, a staggering 80 percent of global carbon dioxide emissions originated from just 57 corporations and state-run enterprises.
Due to this influence, corporations play a crucial role in the quest for sustainability. Many allocate substantial funds to lobby for continuance of environmentally harmful practices; for instance, a new report indicated that oil and gas lobbyists had an average of nearly five meetings per day with Canadian government officials in 2023.
Consequently, Olivastri voices her frustration at how corporate interests have co-opted sustainability initiatives.
Empowerment of Individuals
Despite the need for systemic changes, individuals retain significant power. Olivastri encourages active involvement in local sustainability initiatives.
“Engaging in community discussions on plastic waste management or the establishment of polluting enterprises are instances where involvement is crucial,” she states.
Navigating corporate sustainability claims can be complex, as numerous companies resort to “greenwashing” to oversell the sustainability of their products. If you encounter ambiguous labeling suggesting a product is environmentally friendly, Olivastri advises skepticism. “Question the basis of this claim. Is there proof?” she posits. “Can I verify this?”
In this context, Olivastri urges individuals to adopt the mindset of a citizen—someone who has both rights and obligations toward the environment—rather than merely functioning as a consumer.
Though striving for personal sustainability is essential, we must not overlook the significant changes required from governments and corporations. If you have the ability to speak out and vote, these are vital methods to hold those in power accountable.
This article first appeared in the April 2025 edition of Daitrl magazine.
