Sustainability

10 Questions

Which of the following best describes sustainability?

A social goal for people to co-exist on Earth over a long time

What are the three dimensions (or pillars) often associated with sustainability?

Environmental, economic, and social

What is the main focus of sustainability in everyday use?

Countering major environmental problems

How does UNESCO distinguish between sustainability and sustainable development?

Sustainability is a long-term goal, while sustainable development refers to the processes and pathways to achieve it

At what levels can the idea of sustainability guide decisions?

Global, national, and individual

Match the following topics with their descriptions:

Energy Production in NY = How New York's current energy needs are met Energy Policy & Planning = Policies and plans promoting conservation, energy efficiency, increased use of renewable energy and greener transportation initiatives to help New York combat climate change and achieve our energy goals Energy and Climate Programs = Existing programs that are moving New York towards a sustainable future Climate Change = What climate change scientists are telling us and how we can respond

Match the following resources with their types:

oil = Non-renewable energy source natural gas = Non-renewable energy source renewable sources = Sustainable energy source

Match the following terms with their definitions:

Emissions = Release of greenhouse gases into the atmosphere Climate change = Long-term alteration of temperature and typical weather patterns in a place Energy efficiency = Using less energy to perform the same task

Match the following strategies with their intended goals:

Conservation = Preservation, protection, or restoration of the natural environment and wildlife Energy efficiency = Reducing the amount of energy required to provide products and services Use of renewable energy = Reducing dependency on non-renewable energy sources Greener transportation initiatives = Reducing harmful emissions from vehicles

Match the following with their related concepts:

Energy = Power derived from the utilization of physical or chemical resources Climate Change = A change in global or regional climate patterns Greenhouse gases = Gases that trap heat in the atmosphere Renewable sources = Energy from a source that is not depleted when used

Study Notes

Understanding Sustainability

Sustainability refers to meeting current needs without compromising future generations' ability to meet theirs.
It emphasizes long-term ecological balance and resource management.

Three Dimensions of Sustainability

Environmental: Focus on natural systems and conservation of biodiversity.
Economic: Ensures that economic growth and resource use occur more sustainably.
Social: Addresses equity, justice, and human rights within society.

Everyday Focus of Sustainability

The main focus is on environmentally friendly practices that promote resource conservation and waste reduction.
Encourages sustainable lifestyle choices such as recycling, energy efficiency, and responsible consumption.

UNESCO's Distinction

Sustainability conveys the goal of maintaining ecological and social balance.
Sustainable Development emphasizes the process and strategies to achieve that goal.

Decision-Making Levels

Sustainability can guide decisions at multiple levels:
- Individual: Personal lifestyle choices and consumption habits.
- Community: Local government policies and community initiatives.
- Corporate: Business strategies and operations aimed at reducing environmental impact.
- Global: International agreements and collaboration on sustainability issues.

Matching Topics with Descriptions

This exercise involves correlating various sustainability concepts with their definitions or examples.

Matching Resources with Types

Identifying natural, renewable, and non-renewable resources, along with their categories based on sustainability criteria.

Matching Terms with Definitions

This requires connecting sustainability-related terminology with their precise meanings.

Matching Strategies with Goals

Aligning specific strategies (like recycling or sustainable agriculture) with their objectives (such as reducing waste or improving food security).

Linking broader sustainability concepts to relevant ideas or movements (e.g., connecting renewable energy with climate action).