Although debated, a common definition of sustainability is:
Meeting the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs.
A more in-depth definition is offered by Roy F. Weston:
Sustainable development is the process of change in which the direction of investment, the orientation of technology, the allocation of resources, and the development and functioning of institutions meet present needs and aspirations without endangering the capacity of natural systems to absorb the effects of human activities, and without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs and aspirations
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For more definitions, click here (pdf)(leaving site)
Sustainability takes into account a long-term view that recognizing the interactions between the environment, social justice, and economics. These three factors are often referred to as the triple bottom line. The graphic below displays this relationship.
Although these three pillars of sustainability are essential, this website will focus on the business and facilities aspects of Cornell's commitment to a sustainable campus as they relate to the environment. This website does not fully cover the wealth of sustainable practices within teaching and research arenas.
The Cornell Sustainable Campus effort involves applying the Cornell Mission inward to the facilities and the culture of the Cornell campuses, to conserve resources and reduce environmental impacts in an economically sustainable manner. To learn more about the university's dedication to promoting social equity in its Facilities, Operations, and Business Practices, please review Cornell's Commitment to Diversity.
While looking to the future is an important part of sustainability, it also involves acknowledging and learning from our past. Below are a few documents that give a sense of the history of the sustainability movement at Cornell.
2005 Report Overview (pdf)
- Campus Sustainability in Higher Education (pdf)
Garrett W. Meigs, Campus Sustainability Intern (2005)
An analysis of what other institutions have achieved regarding campus sustainability with recommendations for best strategies at Cornell - The State of Sustainability at Cornell (pdf)
Dean R. Koyanagi, while completing a Masters in Environmental Education through Lesley University
An overview of past and current campus sustainability efforts at Cornell with recommendations for next steps on and off campus -
Campus Sustainability Summit Synthesis (pdf)
Garrett W. Meigs, Campus Sustainability Intern (2005); Robinne L. Gray, Masters Candidate in City and Regional Planning
A snapshot of the collective expertise and enthusiasm of the Cornell community, as demonstrated by discussion and recommendations coming from the Spring 2005 Campus Sustainability Summits
