Defining Sustainability

Author Charles McGlashan describes his definition of "sustainability" and how we, as asociety, can acheive it. Sustainability is the idea that we should produce andconsume at a level reflective of the fact that we live in a finite or closedenvironment -- don't use what cannot be replaced, don't createwhat cannot be broken down. These seemingly simple ideas are being regularlyignored everyday by both manufacturers and consumers. The effects arechaos-theory like in their scope and the ramifications may be dire. But it'snot too late to change our approach to manufacturing and consumption and, withcareful planning, the increased efficiency and savings many "green" companieshave enjoyed demonstrate that the effort is well worth it.