Sustainability

1. Definition

2. Advantages

3. Examples
Definition
● It means meeting our own needs without compromising the ability of
future generations to meet their own needs
● Three pillars: the economy, society, and the environment
● They are interrelated and are important for personal and social
development
Why is it important?
● The environment is an exhaustible resource
● We should use the environment and its resources rationally and
protect it for the good of the Earth, our environment, humanity and all
living things
● It improves the quality of our lives, protects our ecosystem and
preserves natural resources for future generations
Advantages
Ensuring a future for all
● Our present choices and actions have huge long-term impacts on
future generations
● Practicing sustainability ensures that we make ethical choices that
bring a safe and livable future to everyone
● If we deplete the resources of the Earth, future generations will be
depleted
Advantages
Reduced energy cost
● Sustainable business practices lead to a significant reduction in
long-term energy costs
● Some quick initiatives, e.g. switching to energy-efficient lighting,
reduce long-term electrical costs
● Using solar and wind energy, along with energy-efficient equipment,
reduces monthly utility bills.
Advantages
Maintaining a healthy habitats for all
● Our society benefits from improved water and air quality, reduced
landfills, and increased renewable energy sources
● Being committed to sustainability will reduce your carbon footprint
and the amount of toxins released into the environment, making it
safe
● When we focus on sustainability, the entire world benefits and gets to
live in clean, more healthy living conditions.
Examples of Sustainability
Transportation
● A report from the IPPC: 14% of all greenhouse gas emissions come
from transport and most are mostly due to passenger cars
● Simply walking or cycling
● Taking public transportation e.g. trains and buses
● Development of alternatives e.g. electric cars or hydrogen cars
● Companies allow employees to work from home
Textile
● A lot of textile waste and clothes are made of synthetic fibers which
escape to the ocean as microplastics while being washed
● making clothes with resistant materials, sustainably produced cotton
and less toxic chemicals
● Customer should boycott products made in sweatshops where
employees work under bad conditions and get low wages
Food and Agriculture
● Not using toxic pesticides and fertilisers to grow crops
● Avoid causing soil pollution and water eutrophication
● Focusing on organic farming and biomimicry practices
● Rights of farmers should be protected e.g. fair wages
 8 Public Engagements conducted by GovHK

● Long-term Decarbonisation Strategy

● Promotion of Sustainable Consumption of Biological Resources
● Municipal Solid Waste Charging
● Combating Climate Change: Energy Saving and Carbon Emission Reduction in Buildings
● Building Design to Foster a Quality and Sustainable Built Environment
● Clean Air - Clear Choices
● Enhancing Population Potential for a Sustainable Future
● Making Choices for Our Future
Mascot of the Environmental Protection Department

Big Waster
Thank you