Sustainability is the ability to meet the needs of the present generation without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs. It’s a core principle of Environmental Systems & Societies (IB ESS), guiding how humans interact with natural systems. True sustainability balances environmental integrity, economic development, and social well-being — the three pillars of sustainable development.
Quick Start Checklist for IB ESS Students
- Memorize the Brundtland definition of sustainability (1987)
- Understand the three pillars: environmental, social, economic
- Learn real-world examples of sustainable and unsustainable practices
- Connect sustainability to resource management and systems thinking
- Revise with RevisionDojo’s IB ESS study tools and case-based learning
The Concept of Sustainability
At its core, sustainability recognizes that Earth’s resources — air, water, soil, and biodiversity — are finite. If used irresponsibly, these resources degrade, leading to ecological collapse. Therefore, sustainability promotes long-term environmental stewardship while ensuring social equity and economic stability.
In IB ESS, sustainability connects nearly every unit: from ecosystem services and natural capital to climate change, pollution, and energy use. It’s both a scientific and ethical framework for making decisions that minimize environmental impact while promoting human progress.
The Three Pillars of Sustainability
- Environmental Sustainability: Protecting ecosystems, reducing pollution, conserving resources, and maintaining biodiversity.
- Social Sustainability: Ensuring fair access to resources, education, and health while promoting cultural diversity and human rights.
- Economic Sustainability: Developing systems that support growth without depleting natural or human capital — for example, investing in renewable energy and green technologies.
A truly sustainable society integrates all three pillars rather than prioritizing one at the expense of the others.
Sustainability in Practice
Examples of sustainable actions include:
- Renewable energy: Using solar, wind, and hydroelectric power to reduce fossil fuel dependence.
- Sustainable agriculture: Rotating crops, conserving water, and reducing pesticide use.
- Circular economy: Designing systems where materials are reused, recycled, or repurposed.
- Urban planning: Creating green spaces and promoting public transport to reduce emissions.
These examples show how sustainability operates on multiple scales — from local community initiatives to global environmental policies.
The IB ESS Connection
In IB Environmental Systems & Societies, sustainability is central to evaluating resource management, environmental impact assessments, and global change. Students must demonstrate an understanding of sustainability indicators, ecological footprints, and the precautionary principle in decision-making.
Using RevisionDojo’s IB ESS course, learners can explore case studies such as sustainable forestry, fisheries management, and renewable energy systems. RevisionDojo’s structured materials help students connect theory to real-world environmental challenges and prepare for data-based questions and essay evaluations.
Why Sustainability Matters
Sustainability ensures the long-term survival of ecosystems and societies. It’s not just about conserving nature — it’s about maintaining the balance that supports life, economic growth, and social stability. IB students studying sustainability learn to think critically about resource limits, ethical responsibility, and global cooperation.
FAQs
What is the definition of sustainability in IB ESS?
Meeting current needs without compromising future generations’ ability to meet theirs, through balanced environmental, economic, and social practices.
Why is sustainability important?
It ensures the preservation of natural resources, ecosystem health, and social equity — essential for long-term planetary stability.
How can we measure sustainability?
Through indicators like the ecological footprint, biocapacity, and sustainability indices that evaluate human impact on natural systems.
