Category: General Sustainability Terms

Adverse effects that result from a single or brief series of exposures to a toxic substance in a very short period. 

The unofficial unit of geological time that refers to the current period of Earth’s history, where human activity is considered the most significant driver of the planet’s climatic and ecological systems. In the Anthropocene, human activity can be demonstrated in the modern geologic record. 

Capable of quickly decomposing by microorganisms in natural conditions, whether aerobic or anaerobic. Examples of biodegradable substances include organic materials like food waste and paper.

A systems approach designed to address global environmental issues such as climate change, biodiversity loss, waste and pollution. It is based on three design-driven principles, which are to eradicate waste and pollution, promote the continuous circulation of products and materials at their maximum value and contribute to the regeneration of nature.

This transition involves a shift to renewable energy and materials, aiming to decopule economic activity from the depletion of finite resources. The circular economy represents a holistic transformation that fosters resilience, business and economic value and both environmental and societal benefits.

Reclaimed materials that are returned to the original process from which they were generated.

In a regulatory context, this definition can be dependent on the jurisdiction. Depending on the material and the context, the definition can entail continuous cycling of the material or returning the material to nature without harm.

Any present action that obligates an organization to a future course of action.

A biological process involving the anaerobic or aerobic decompositioin of biodegradable waste, resulting in a product used on land or for creating growing media or substrates.

Not all theoretically compostable items are able to be made into compost under various conditions and regulations.

A reduction in both production and consumption, aimed at improving human wellbeing while also enhancing ecological conditions and equity on Earth.

Discarded electronic product materials and devices. Electronic waste often leaks harmful metals and chemicals. 

Based on forecasts. 

Based on actual results (rather than forecasts) 

The process (largely in marketing) of misleading an audience to believe that a brand, product or process is more environmentally-beneficial than it is in actuality. 

A “take, make, waste” model of economics where materials are extracted from the natural environment, produced into a good, and ultimately discarded as waste without further use, value, or contribution. See the “circular economy” for an alternative model within sustainable economics. 

Another term for the reservoir of renewable and non-renewable natural resources on Earth (e.g., plants, animals, air, water, soils, minerals) that collectively provide a stream of benefits or “services” to people.

A project where soils, vegetation, or other natural resources are protected or enhanced, leading to avoided emissions or removals. Reforestation and agroforestry are examples of nature-based projects. 

Presented by the Stockholm Resilience Centre, the Planetary Boundaries are limits set for 9 environmental categories within which humanity can continue to safely thrive for generations to come. Crossing the boundaries implies severe consequences for humanity and the environment. The categorized 9 planetary boundaries are climate change (already crossed), change in biosphere integrity (biodiversity loss and species extinction, already crossed), stratospheric ozone depletion, ocean acidification, biogeochemical flows (phosphorus and nitrogen cycles, already crossed), land-system change (already crossed), freshwater use, atmospheric aerosol loading (microscopic particles in the atmosphere that affect climate and living organisms), and the introduction of novel entities. 

Robert Rodale coined the term “regenerative organic” to describe a holistic approach to farming that encourages continuous innovation and improvement of environmental, social, and economic measures. The term now is used with various definitions and context. 

Supply chains that are able to adapt, resist or avoid the impact of a disruption; able to quickly recover from disturbances (disruptions may include climate change, unexpected competition, sudden trends and changes in customer behaviors). 

The ability to meet present needs without compromising the future generations’ ability to meet their own needs. Generally refers to the concept of reducing environmental impacts on climate, water, biodiversity and other environmental indicators, but it can also be used for economic and social pillars.

Sustainable is generally referring to a state that meets the needs of the present without compromising the ability for future generation to meet their needs. The term is commonly used to refer to less impacing products (e.g., with lower greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions). 

An analysis or perception that emphasizes the interrelated parts of a whole; holistically acknowledging and evaluating context and interactions to understand the whole system. 

A business principle suggesting that companies assess not only their financial performance but also their social and environmental impact, diverging from the traditional focus solely on profit (or the typical “bottom line”). This approach is often represented by the “three Ps”: profit, people and planet.

Various defintions; Generally, the preservation of all resources through conscientious production, consumption, reuse and recovery of products, packaging and materials, without incineration or the release of pollutants to land, water or air that pose threats to the environment or human health.