What Is Sustainability?
Sustainability is a short-hand term for viewing the relationship between our actions today and their effect on the future. Living sustainably means that we meet today's needs without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their needs. Sustainable planning recognizes the interconnections between the environment, economy, and society. A disruption in any one area affects the health of the other two.
In recent years, the idea of sustainability has moved into the mainstream. Many, however, believe sustainability is solely an environmental issue or more narrowly, an effort to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. As important as these are, true sustainability is much more. Sustainability recognizes the connection between a healthy environment, a vibrant economy, and a socially equitable community-the three E's of sustainability.
What Is an Indicator?
An indicator is a statistic or trend that displays the direction in which a particular condition is heading. Indicators measure whether a community is getting better or worse at providing all of its members with a productive, enjoyable life, both now and prospectively in the future. Indicators can be used by policy makers and planners to set goals, measure progress toward achieving them, and prioritize the allocation of scarce resources.
Social Equity
. . . meet the needs of all of its citizens. It would provide all residents with good schools, affordable housing, and basic services that enable even the least affluent to live comfortably. It would also foster a sense of individual responsibility for the community.
Economy
. . . have a strong economy that fosters sound businesses, governments, and nonprofit organizations. Its economy would provide good jobs, basic community needs, a fertile ground for innovation, and a solid foundation for society.
Environment
. . . have clean air, clean water, and be free from pollution. It would have a healthy environment where resources would be replaced and not depleted. It would also include natural spaces where animals and plants can thrive.
