Why is Sustainability so Important? 

​     The basic definition of sustainability, by Bruntland Report for the World Commission on Environment and Development (1992), is "meeting the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs". 

​     Sustainability is essential because the Earth's resources are finite and we rely on those resources to carry out our everyday lives. The most vital resources, including basic necessities such as food and water, are threatened by the current unsustainable systems in place. Sustainable practices can be embraced daily by individuals who wish for future generations to enjoy the same quality of life that we currently have. Starting at the individual level, we must take action before we destroy our planet beyond repair. Some examples are listed below.  

What you can do to become more sustainable:

• ​​Bring your own reusable water bottle and reusable bag everywhere you go 
  
• ​Buy from eco-friendly or local businesses
  
• Conserve energy by buying compact fluorescent light bulbs and turn off lights not in use
  
• Conserve water by taking shorter showers and shutting off faucets when not in use
  
• Choose to eat locally, organically grown foods that did not travel hundreds of miles to reach your plate
  
• Educate yourself on the practice of sustainability and increase your environmental awareness  
  

      These may seem hard in theory, but after some practice these tricks will become second nature. Taking time everyday to make sustainable choices can change the course of our environmental history and yes, your actions make a difference. Naturally, sustainability is a far greater task than these simple everyday changes, but it can only get us closer to achieving the goals of sustainability.  

dwyer sustainability team