Sustainable Dictionary: What do Different Sustainable Terms Mean?
The world of sustainability can be confusing at times, this is why we have broken down key terms and definitions that are commonly used in the world of sustainability.
Biodegradable
These products can be broken down via microorganisms and be returned back to the earth.
Carbon Footprint
This refers to the emissions of carbon dioxide or greenhouse gases that an individual or organisation emits. If a company emits X tonnes of carbon every year then X is the carbon footprint of Y
Carbon Neutral
Companies may claim to be carbon neutral which is when they achieve net-zero carbon emissions. This is because they have offset the amount of carbon that they produce by purchasing carbon credits or in activities such as tree planting.
Carbon Offset
When a company or individual purchases credits or uses carbon trading schemes to offset their emissions.
Composting
This is when natural products can be broken down by microorganisms and become nutrient-rich soil as the final product.
Circular Economy
When a product or service’s life cycle is completed the components will be repurposed back into the production phase. Nothing is disposed of or ends up in landfills in a circular economy model
Fairtrade
Fairtrade ensures a fair partnership between the producers and the manufacturers. Previously corporations have taken advantage of producers and underpaid them or exploited them.
Greenwashing
This is a marketing term for when a product or service is incorrectly portrayed as environmentally friendly or sustainable when it is not.
Natural Resources
Raw materials that are found in nature are harvested to create products and energy. It includes fossil fuels from the ground, sunlight or even bamboo. Some natural resources are not always good and can be non-renewable.
Organic
When a product is organic it follows the USDA-accredited certification. This means that no pesticides or fertilisers are used. Secondly, no genetically modified ingredients are use
Recycling
This refers to the collection and reprocessing of materials to be used again. This would be the process of diverting waste from landfills to be utilised for something else.
Reforestation
The process of planting trees where a forest once existed and had been removed for commercial purposes
Renewable Resources and Energy
These energy sources come from places that are not depleted when used. This can include wind power, hydropower, solar power and geothermal sources. Non-renewable sources are coal, oil and groundwater which will eventually run out.