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Sustainability A to Z: A Glossary of Key Terms

In this alphabetically organized glossary of sustainability terms, we provide a comprehensive list of key terms that are essential for understanding sustainability. From "Circular economy" to "Zero waste," this glossary covers a range of terms related to sustainability that can help individuals, businesses, and policymakers to make informed decisions and take action to create a more sustainable world.


By understanding these key terms, you can better understand the sustainability challenges we face and the potential solutions that are available. Whether you are an environmental activist, a sustainability professional, or simply someone who wants to make a positive impact, this glossary can serve as a valuable resource to help you navigate the complex terminology associated with sustainability.


So, let's explore the world of sustainability and discover the key terms that are essential to creating a better future for ourselves and the planet.

  • Agroecology: An approach to agriculture that emphasizes sustainable and ecological principles.

  • Bio-based products: Products made from renewable biological resources, such as crops or forestry products.

  • Biodiversity: The variety of living organisms in an ecosystem.

  • Biodegradable: Capable of being decomposed by natural biological processes, typically within a relatively short period of time.

  • Carbon footprint: The amount of greenhouse gas emissions caused by an individual, organization, or product.

  • Circular economy: An economic system in which resources are used and reused as much as possible, reducing waste and increasing efficiency.

  • Clean energy: Energy that is generated from renewable sources, such as solar or wind power.

  • Climate adaptation: Strategies and measures that help communities and ecosystems cope with the impacts of climate change.

  • Climate mitigation: Actions taken to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and limit the severity of climate change.

  • Corporate sustainability: The practice of integrating sustainable practices and principles into a company's operations and business model.

  • Cradle-to-cradle: A design approach that considers the entire life cycle of a product, from production to disposal, and aims to create products that can be fully recycled or repurposed.

  • Decarbonization: The process of reducing or eliminating the use of fossil fuels in favor of clean energy sources.

  • Eco-label: A certification label indicating that a product or service meets environmental standards.

  • Ecological footprint: A measure of the impact that human activities have on the environment, including the amount of land and resources required to support those activities.

  • Energy efficiency: The practice of using energy in a more efficient way, reducing the amount of energy required to produce a given output.

  • Fair trade: A system that ensures that producers of goods in developing countries receive a fair price for their products and are not exploited.

  • Food waste: The edible parts of food that are discarded, often due to overproduction or expiration.

  • Green building: A building designed to be energy-efficient, sustainable, and environmentally friendly.

  • Green chemistry: The design and development of chemical products and processes that reduce or eliminate the use and generation of hazardous substances.

  • Green economy: An economy that is focused on sustainable development and the efficient use of resources.

  • Greenhouse gases: Gases, such as carbon dioxide and methane, that contribute to the greenhouse effect and global warming.

  • Green infrastructure: Natural or engineered systems that provide ecosystem services and environmental benefits, such as parks, wetlands, and green roofs.

  • Greenwashing: The practice of making false or exaggerated environmental claims about a product or service to appeal to consumers.

  • Life cycle assessment: A method used to evaluate the environmental impacts of a product or service throughout its entire life cycle.

  • Local food: Food that is produced and consumed within a defined geographic region, often with an emphasis on sustainability and community development.

  • Net zero: Achieving a balance between greenhouse gas emissions produced and emissions removed from the atmosphere.

  • Organic: Refers to agricultural products that are grown without synthetic pesticides or fertilizers.

  • Renewable energy: Energy derived from sources that can be replenished, such as solar, wind, or hydropower.

  • Resource efficiency: The efficient use of resources, such as energy, water, and materials, to reduce waste and increase productivity.

  • Social sustainability: The ability of a society to meet the needs of its members, while also promoting equality, fairness, and human rights.

  • Sustainable agriculture: Agriculture that is designed to be environmentally and socially sustainable, while also meeting the needs of farmers and consumers.

  • Sustainable development: Development that meets the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs.

  • Sustainable forestry: Forestry practices that aim to maintain or improve the health and productivity of forests while also protecting biodiversity and ecosystem services.

  • Sustainable packaging: Packaging that is designed to minimize waste, reduce environmental impact, and promote recycling or reuse.

  • Sustainable seafood: Seafood that is harvested or farmed in a way that is environmentally and socially responsible, ensuring the long-term health of ocean ecosystems.

  • Sustainable tourism: Tourism that is designed to minimize negative impacts on the environment and local communities, while also promoting cultural exchange and economic development.

  • Triple bottom line: A framework that considers the environmental, social, and economic impacts of business activities, aiming to create sustainable value for all stakeholders.

  • Upcycling: The process of transforming waste materials into new products of equal or greater value.

  • Urban agriculture: The practice of growing food in urban areas, often using innovative techniques such as hydroponics or vertical farming.

  • Water conservation: The practice of using water in a more efficient way, reducing waste and preserving water resources for future generations.

  • Zero waste: A philosophy and approach to living that aims to minimize waste and prevent pollution, through practices such as recycling, composting, and waste reduction.

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