Sustainability and the environment

1. PowerPoint three Sustainability and the environment

2. Sustainability Sustainability is the goal of maintaining a human society over time in ways that are fair and just for all people and do not damage the environment and its biodiversity. Sustainable communities are described as places where people lead lives of quality and dignity without damaging the ecological systems responsible for clean air, safe water, healthy foods, shelter and human health.

3. Sustainable development A plan for the development of communities that balances the importance of a vibrant economy and sustainability. The United Nations Environment and Development Programme states that human well-being is central to its efforts to promote sustainable development.

4. Weak sustainability The three elements of sustainable development – the environment, society and the economy – are competing interests. The point where they come together represents sustainable development. environment society economy

5. Weak sustainability This model accepts that many aspects of development serve the economy, society or the environment alone. It suggests that technology can be a substitute for a damaged environment. environment society economy

6. Strong sustainability The environmental element of sustainable development is viewed as the common ground where society and the economy interact and develop. environment society economy

7. Strong sustainability Development cannot damage the environment; a healthy environment is fundamental to a just and fair society and a vibrant economy – now and in the future. environment society economy

8. One planet living WWF-UK and BioRegional developed 10 principles for ‘one planet living’ that designers can use to plan places and products that promote sustainable development. The phrase ‘one planet’ refers to the level of natural resource use required for everyone on the planet to have access to their ‘fair share’. Today, a small number of people use the majority of the earth’s resources.

9. 1. Zero carbon The activity must produce net zero carbon dioxide emissions. Net zero means that the activity produces no carbon dioxide, or takes measures to remove the carbon dioxide it produces. How can packaging be ‘zero carbon’?

10. 2. Zero waste How can packaging be ‘zero waste’? All materials must be used cleanly and recycled cleanly in a continuous cycle; or they must be composted to re-enter ecological cycles.

11. 3. Sustainable transport How can packaging achieve ‘sustainable transport’? The movement of materials and products must be done in ways that are good for people and the environment.

12. 4. Local and sustainable materials Meet consumer demands by using materials that are locally sourced and use locally available technologies for recycling and reuse. What types of packaging can be produced using ‘local and sustainable materials’?

13. 5. Local and sustainable food What role can packaging play to promote ‘local and sustainable food’? Promote and consume foods that support regional agriculture and food industries, and minimise their use of non-renewable natural resources in the form of fossil fuels used for transport and fertilisers.

14. 6. Sustainable water What role does water play in packaging production and recycling and how can it be sustainable? Water use that promotes human health and prevents water pollution, depletion of fresh water, and harm to aquatic and marine ecosystems.

15. 7. Natural habitats and wildlife The harvesting or mining of natural resources, and the construction of transport routes, factories, warehouses and retail centres should not damage or degrade natural habitats or harm wildlife. What role can packaging play in protecting and restoring ‘natural habitats and wildlife’?

16. 8. Culture and heritage Economic activities should honour and protect the culture and heritage of the communities they affect, and local knowledge should be used to make decisions. How can ‘culture and heritage’ be used to improve packaging?

17. 9. Equity and fair trade What role can packaging play in promoting ‘equity and fair trade’? Everyone involved in the development, distribution, sales and recycling of products must be treated and paid fairly and have opportunities for a dignified life.

18. 10. Health and happiness Beyond the consumption of goods and services to meet basic human needs, there is no correlation between consumption (wealth) and happiness. What role can packaging play in addressing excessive consumption and promoting ‘health and happiness’?