Sustainability is a principle of resource management in which only as many resources of a system are utilised as can be regenerated. In the direct context, reference is often made to the fact that only in this way can the fulfilment of needs from the use of the system be guaranteed in the long term. The systems mentioned include both natural resources (in particular ecosystems and living beings) and human resources (labour, motivation, health) and other intangible resources (trust, credibility, etc.).
According to current models, sustainability encompasses the dimensions of ecological, social and economic sustainability. All three dimensions are elementary systems for satisfying human needs and their utilisation should be in balance with one another.
The term sustainability goes back to the obsolete verb "to maintain" and means to be able to preserve something in the long term. Since 2010, the term "grandchild suitability" or "grandchild justice" has increasingly been used as a synonym and refers more strongly to a lasting fulfilment of needs. The word sustainability itself is perceived by many as very vague, which is why it is often seen as a buzzword and associated with greenwashing.
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