Sustainability and environmental issues Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2500 words

Sustainability and environmental issues - Essay Example I think the fundamental definitions of sustainability need to be changed in such a way that they relate to all key aspects of development instead of relating only to such activities that point towards individual comfort. Principles of sustainability appear to be more multifaceted and flexible as compared to livability principles which appear to be focused towards some key aspects of development. Social equity is the central theme of the principles of sustainability. Most of the principles revolve around such activities that ensure gender and social equity. â€Å"Sustainability is focused on the future as well as the present, and in particular the ability to sustain human society† (Sanford 2012, p. 1). On the other hand, livability principles describe the varied aspects of surroundings, society, and shared experiences that form a society. They are focused towards improving human wellbeing, and promote efforts to improve economy, environment, and human life. The comparison of th e principles of sustainability and livability principles reveal that sustainable development is all about fulfillment of basic needs of people and about ensuring that future generations can also benefit from political and social development. Sustainable development interconnects society, economy, and the environment. Sustainability focuses on meeting human needs without damaging the environment for future generations. It also focuses on improving the quality of life through technology without polluting the environment. On the other hand, livability is about interconnecting quality and transportation facilities for increasing opportunities for people. Some of those opportunities include quality schools and colleges, affordable housing, access to employment opportunities, and safe streets (Sanford 2012). Through comparing the principles of sustainability and livability principles, I would say that the principles of livability can be improved by aligning them with the framework of sust ainability. It will not only make livability principles more dynamic and varied, but also it will help people is developing an equity-based society where there is no difference between individuals and efforts of every person is geared towards bringing improvement in economy and social and political environments using livability guidelines. This alignment of the goals of sustainability with the principles of livability will also allow for an integrated planning framework which can be used for meeting the guidelines of both livability and sustainability (Sanford 2012). Sustainable Development Retrieved from http://insightto-energy.blogspot.com/2011_04_01_archive.html The principles of sustainability cover all key aspects of a strong society, such as, use of appropriate technology, building cultural and spiritual sensitivity, improving national sovereignty, reducing gender discrimination, ensuring peace and national unity, and strengthening democracy and institutional viability. On the other hand, the definitions of livability can be aligned with the principles of sustainability to build a dynamic social, political, and economic environment. I think it would be useful to change the fundamental definitions of sustainability into ones that are more understandable and relate to local aspects because it will add to social stability and economic prosperity. â€Å"