Visual Sustainability Framework Images
The best definition of sustainability is a visual representation of the diagram seen here:
In this diagram of sustainability we see that the concept of sustainability is actually made up of the union of three different, but related concepts. People, Planet, and Profit are all part of the recipe for sustainability. This visualization that incorporates three related circles called a vin diagram. The sweet spot of the venn diagram is in the middle where sustainability is represented. True sustainable outcomes occur when the three concepts are working together in harmony.
Another way to visualize sustainability is with this Pillar Diagram. While showing the concepts in a different visual way, the intention to show how these three elements must be balanced together is the same as the venn diagram visualization. Notice that all three pillars are equal in height and weight to show that neither concept is more important than the other.
The last way to visualize the definition of sustainability is to modify the venn diagram. This graphic displays essentially the same information, but also attempts to show how some concepts of sustainability are more important than others. For example, the profit and economic development should serve the needs of people and society. Related, the people and society can only exist as part of our larger planet and environment. If our people and society end up destroying the planet through unsustainable practices, then we won’t have a planet to support the smaller two concepts of people and economic profit.
(Image of circle diagram https://i1.wp.com/ryandthompson.me/wp/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/where-is-the-environment-4.jpg?resize=480%2C450 )
Definitions to quote:
Chris Boone, Dean of USA’s 1st School of Sustainability – Reference: https://schoolofsustainability.asu.edu
Brundtland Commission – Reference: http://www.un-documents.net/ocf-02.htm
EPA Environmental Protection Agency – Reference: https://www.epa.gov/sustainability/learn-about-sustainability