Sustainability Terminology
20 Sustainability Terminology Words with Meanings and Examples
1. Sustainability: The ability to meet the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs.
- Example: Sustainable development is essential for protecting the environment and ensuring a prosperous future.
2. Climate Change: A long-term change in Earth’s climate, including changes in temperature, precipitation, and sea levels.
- Example: Climate change is caused by human activities such as burning fossil fuels.
3. Renewable Energy: Energy derived from sources that are replenished naturally, such as sunlight, wind, and water.
- Example: Solar, wind, and hydro power are examples of renewable energy sources.
4. Carbon Footprint: The total amount of greenhouse gases produced by an individual, organization, or country.
- Example: Reducing your carbon footprint is important for combating climate change.
5. Biodiversity: The variety of life on Earth, including all plants, animals, fungi, and microorganisms.
- Example: Biodiversity loss is a major environmental concern.
6. Conservation: The protection and preservation of the natural environment.
- Example: Conservation efforts aim to protect biodiversity and maintain healthy ecosystems.
7. Pollution: The introduction of harmful substances into the environment.
- Example: Air pollution, water pollution, and soil pollution are major environmental problems.
8. Deforestation: The clearing of forests to make way for other land uses.
- Example: Deforestation is a major cause of habitat loss for many species.
9. Desertification: The process by which fertile land becomes desert.
- Example: Overgrazing and climate change are contributing to desertification in many parts of the world.
10. Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs): A set of 17 goals adopted by the United Nations to promote sustainable development.
- Example: The SDGs address issues such as poverty, inequality, climate change, and environmental protection.
11. Circular Economy: An economic model that aims to eliminate waste and keep resources in use for as long as possible.
- Example: A circular economy reduces waste and pollution while promoting economic growth.
12. Green Technology: Technology that is designed to be environmentally friendly.
- Example: Solar panels and electric vehicles are examples of green technology.
13. Carbon Neutrality: The state of emitting net zero carbon dioxide into the atmosphere.
- Example: Many countries are aiming to achieve carbon neutrality by 2050.
14. Renewable Energy Sources: Energy sources that are replenished naturally, such as sunlight, wind, and water.
- Example: Solar, wind, and hydro power are examples of renewable energy sources.
15. Sustainable Agriculture: Agricultural practices that are environmentally friendly and sustainable.
- Example: Sustainable agriculture practices can help to conserve natural resources and reduce pollution.
16. Eco-friendly: Environmentally friendly.
- Example: Eco-friendly products are designed to minimize their impact on the environment.
17. Zero Waste: A philosophy that aims to reduce waste to a minimum.
- Example: Zero waste initiatives encourage recycling and composting.
18. Biodegradable: Capable of being decomposed by bacteria or other organisms.
- Example: Biodegradable materials break down naturally and do not harm the environment.
19. Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA): A process used to assess the potential environmental effects of a proposed development.
- Example: EIAs are used to ensure that development projects are carried out in a sustainable manner.
20. Greenwashing: The practice of making false or misleading claims about a product or service’s environmental benefits.
- Example: Some companies engage in greenwashing to promote their products as environmentally friendly, even if they are not.
