What is Sustainability?
“we thrive and survive on planet earth as a single human family. and one of our main responsibilities is to leave to successor generations a sustainable future.” — general kofi a. annan, united nations secretary
The Brutland Commission, formally known as the World Commission of Environment and Development (WCED), has defined sustainable development in a report titled Our Common Future, "as development that meets the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs.” This definition implies that there are limits to the amount of available resources and the ability of the earth to absorb human activity. Such confines require the restructuring of our consumption habits to ensure a healthy life and earth for future generations.
Around the globe there are signs that our current way of life is unsustainable: smog, disappearing wildlife habitats, melting ice fields, extreme weather events, flooding, relocation of people, and more. This is the time to adjust our behaviors.
Boston College's Sustainability Mission Statement:
"Boston College recognizes that there are limits to the world's resources. To ensure the quality of life for future generations, Boston College seeks to demonstrate leadership in environmental stewardship and sustainability, living the motto 'ever to excel.' The university is committed to conserving resources and reducing the impact that its services and activities place on the environment."