Introduction to Sustainability

Definitions of Sustainability

"Sustainable development is development that meets the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs."

Norwegian Prime-Minister, Gro Harlem Brundtland, Our Common Future - The Bruntland Report, 1987

‘Our drive to push up investment and growth must take place within a framework that encourages sustainable development’. 

United Kingdom Prime Minister, Tony Blair, 2nd September 2002

Achieving the right balance

Sustainability is all about achieving balance, a balance between the needs of the economy, society and the environment.
 
The economy, often seen as the focus for regeneration, does not exist in isolation but within society. This relationship is reflected in key documents such as the Community Plan and Wolverhampton’s Neighbourhood Renewal Strategy.
 
Both the economy and society exist within, and impact on, the environment. Ultimately it is the finite nature and quality of the environment that we aspire to that constrains development.