What does sustainable mean Meaning and Definition
What does sustainable mean
Pronunciation
/ˈsʌsˌteɪnəbl/
Part of Speech
Noun
Definition
A way of living or doing something that does not harm the environment and can be continued for a long time.
Examples
- The company implemented sustainable practices to reduce their carbon footprint.
- Sustainable agriculture aims to produce food while preserving the environment.
Synonyms
- Eco-friendly
- Environmentally responsible
Antonyms
- Harmful
- Polluting
Etymology
The word “sustainable” comes from the Latin “sustinere”, meaning “to hold up” or “to support”, and was first used in the 1960s to describe practices that can be maintained over time.
Usage Notes
Sustainable refers to practices, policies, and lifestyles that do not harm the environment and can be continued indefinitely.
Additional Information
Sustainable development is a key concept in global initiatives and national policies, aiming to balance economic, social, and environmental needs. In personal life, sustainable practices can include using public transport, reducing energy consumption, and reducing food waste.
Cultural References
The concept of sustainability has been featured in popular culture, such as in movies like “The Day After Tomorrow” (2004) and TV shows like “Apocalypse Now” (2019).
Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases
- “Go green” (to adopt sustainable practices)
- “Think globally, act locally” (a phrase emphasizing the importance of individual actions in achieving sustainable development)
Related Words or Phrases
- Greenhouse effect
- Carbon footprint
Collocations
- sustainable energy
- sustainable agriculture
Frequency of Use
The word “sustainable” is increasingly used in everyday language and is a frequently discussed topic in media and academia.
Common Misspellings
- susatinable
- sustanible