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sustainability

suh-stay-nuh-BIL-ih-tee /səˌsteɪnəˈbɪləti/

nounB2IELTSTOEFLPTE

academicprofessionalpolitical

The ability to be maintained at a certain rate or level; avoidance of the depletion of natural resources in order to maintain an ecological balance.

Often used in the 'triple bottom line' sense: environmental, social, and economic viability.

The story behind the word. From the Latin 'sustinere,' meaning to 'hold up' or 'support from below.' It originally meant to endure or withstand, but in the 20th century, it shifted to mean maintaining ecological balance.

Word relationships

viability: Viability is the ability to work successfully; sustainability is the ability to keep working indefinitely without running out of resources.

unviability: The state of not being able to work or survive.
depletion: The reduction in the number or quantity of something.

Commonly confused with

conservation: Conservation is the act of protecting resources; sustainability is the broader system that allows resources to last.

Word family

sustainable (adjective): Able to be maintained.
sustain (verb): To maintain or support.

Collocations

environmental sustainability
long-term sustainability
sustainability goals

Example sentences

"Our company is committed to sustainability by reducing our carbon footprint and sourcing local ingredients." Corporate mission statement.
"Sustainable development is development that meets the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs." The definitive definition of the term. (Brundtland Report, United Nations (1987))

Memory hook

Think of 'sustaining' a note in music—you keep it going without letting it drop. Sustainability: Keep it going forever.

When not to use

Avoid using it as a buzzword for anything 'green' if there isn't a long-term plan for maintenance.

Fun facts

The term 'sustainable' was first used in the context of forestry in the 18th century to ensure a continuous supply of timber.