In an era of rapid global change and growing environmental concerns, the concept of sustainability has emerged as a guiding principle for individuals, businesses, and societies worldwide. But what does sustainability truly mean?

Official definition
Sustainability is a normative concept that is based on ethical valuations and knowledge of the world’s state and casualty. The pursuit of sustainability entails linking what is known in scientific study to applications of what people want for the future.

While a specific definition has yet to be agreed upon, the 1983 UN Commission on Environment and Development Brundtland Report has had a big influence on the popularisation of the concept, with many now understanding its development as one that “meets the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs”. 

Beyond the environment
However, more often than not, this understanding focuses solely on the environment. Be it conserving natural resources, protecting biodiversity by promoting conservation, reducing pollution, or mitigating climate change through the adoption of sustainable land and resource management strategies, the general consensus of “sustainable” practices usually only extends to those with direct influence on the environment. 

But sustainability does not stop there. Embedded in its definition are also concerns for social justice and economic development. 

While we cannot answer the debate of their hierarchical importance, we can say with certainty that a sustainable future calls for more than environmental protection.

Social systems should foster more inclusive communities, promote social well-being, and address systemic inequalities. This means ensuring equal access to resources, opportunities, and basic human rights for all individuals, regardless of their background or circumstances.

Economic systems should also operate within the boundaries of ecological sustainability and promote long-term resilience. This could involve transitioning to sustainable business models that prioritise responsible production and consumption, ethical supply chains, fair trade practices, and circular economy principles. 

Innovating collaboratively for a sustainable future
Unfortunately, achieving all three pillars at a scale is extremely difficult. One of the biggest hurdles of the sustainability agenda is kickstarting collective action among individuals, communities, governments, and organisations to innovate for meaningful change. 

This is where Vidacity comes into play. With partnerships essential to mobilise knowledge, expertise, technology, and financial resources, our core purpose is to build an ecosystem that brings together diverse stakeholders to address sustainability challenges. Aligning with Sustainable Development Goal 17: Partnership for the Goals, we will serve as a catalyst for positive change by fostering a collaborative environment to support entrepreneurship and innovation whilst meeting the needs of the community through various services, engagements, and organised programmes.

Not forgetting the environmental pillar, Vidacity is leveraging the circular economy concept by repurposing an old school building, upcycling or reusing materials wherever we can, adding greenery as well as working with partners who focus on sustainable solutions to transform the space into a greener one. 

Through these efforts, we strive to constantly work towards sustainability by benefiting and achieving a balance across all three pillars. 

Conclusion
Sustainability is more than just a buzzword; it is a transformative approach that holds the potential to reshape our world. And although the concept of sustainability is constantly in dispute, a shift towards systems thinking – an understanding that all components of our interconnected world are part of a larger whole – will kickstart the journey towards a more harmonious and resilient future. Through collective effort, visionary leadership, and individual responsibility, we hope that Vidacity sets an example for others to follow.