What are the Four Pillars of Sustainability?

Sustainability is a term that is often used but not always well understood. In essence, sustainability refers to the ability of a system or process to be maintained at a certain level over time. The concept of sustainability can be applied to a wide range of areas, including environmental, social, and economic systems. To fully understand sustainability, it is important to understand the four types of sustainability. These include: environmental sustainability, social sustainability, economic sustainability, and cultural sustainability. Each of these types of sustainability is interconnected and interdependent, and together they form the foundation of sustainable development. By understanding these four types of sustainability, we can better understand how to create a more sustainable future for ourselves and future generations.

Defining Sustainability

The concept of sustainability

The concept of sustainability refers to the ability of current generations to meet their needs without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs. This concept was first introduced in the Brundtland Report in 1987, which defined sustainable development as “development that meets the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs.”

The concept of sustainability is based on three interconnected pillars: economic, social, and environmental. These pillars are interdependent and must be balanced in order to achieve sustainable development.

The economic pillar of sustainability refers to the ability of an economy to generate wealth and provide for the basic needs of its citizens without depleting natural resources or causing irreversible damage to the environment.

The social pillar of sustainability refers to the ability of a society to provide for the well-being and social equity of its citizens, including access to education, healthcare, and other essential services.

The environmental pillar of sustainability refers to the ability of the natural environment to support the needs of present and future generations, including maintaining biodiversity, preventing pollution, and mitigating the effects of climate change.

Overall, the concept of sustainability emphasizes the need for a holistic approach to development that takes into account the interdependence of economic, social, and environmental factors, and the need to balance short-term needs with long-term sustainability.

The importance of sustainability

• The concept of sustainability encompasses the interconnected factors that contribute to the long-term well-being of individuals, communities, and the environment.
• It recognizes that economic, social, and environmental dimensions are interdependent and must be balanced to ensure the continued survival and prosperity of current and future generations.
• The importance of sustainability lies in its ability to address the pressing challenges of our time, such as climate change, resource depletion, and social inequality, by promoting responsible and ethical decision-making and action.
• Sustainability emphasizes the need for holistic and integrated approaches that prioritize the long-term benefits of human activities over short-term gains, recognizing that the health of the planet and the well-being of its inhabitants are intimately connected.
• Ultimately, the importance of sustainability stems from its potential to foster a more equitable, resilient, and prosperous future for all, based on principles of social justice, environmental stewardship, and economic stability.

The four pillars of sustainability

Sustainability is a concept that encompasses the interconnected dimensions of economic, social, and environmental well-being. The four pillars of sustainability serve as a framework for understanding and addressing the complex interplay between these dimensions. They are:

1. Economic Sustainability
2. Social Sustainability
3. Environmental Sustainability
4. Cultural Sustainability

Economic Sustainability

Economic sustainability refers to the ability of a system or process to maintain its productivity and stability over time. It involves creating economic growth that is both equitable and environmentally responsible, while also preserving natural resources for future generations. Key strategies for achieving economic sustainability include investing in renewable energy sources, promoting sustainable agriculture and fisheries, and fostering innovation and entrepreneurship in green industries.

Social Sustainability

Social sustainability is concerned with the ability of societies to meet the needs of their citizens, particularly in terms of access to education, healthcare, and social services. It also encompasses the development of strong, inclusive communities that can adapt to change and foster social cohesion. Key strategies for achieving social sustainability include investing in education and lifelong learning, promoting social innovation and citizen engagement, and building resilient communities that can withstand economic, social, and environmental shocks.

Environmental Sustainability

Environmental sustainability refers to the responsible use and management of natural resources, as well as the preservation of biodiversity and ecosystems. It involves minimizing the negative impacts of human activities on the environment, while also promoting sustainable production and consumption patterns. Key strategies for achieving environmental sustainability include reducing greenhouse gas emissions, protecting and restoring ecosystems, and promoting sustainable agriculture and forestry practices.

Cultural Sustainability

Cultural sustainability is concerned with the preservation and promotion of cultural diversity, as well as the transmission of cultural heritage to future generations. It involves supporting the revitalization of endangered languages and traditions, as well as promoting intercultural dialogue and understanding. Key strategies for achieving cultural sustainability include promoting cultural tourism, supporting the preservation of cultural heritage sites, and fostering cultural exchange and collaboration between different communities.

Goals of sustainability

Sustainability refers to the ability of a system or process to be maintained at a certain level over time. It involves balancing economic, social, and environmental factors to ensure long-term viability. The goals of sustainability are to meet the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs. This requires a focus on sustainable development, which involves making decisions that balance short-term gains with long-term impacts.

The Four Pillars of Sustainability

Preserving natural resources

Environmental sustainability is the first pillar of sustainability and focuses on preserving natural resources for future generations. This includes managing resources such as water, forests, and minerals in a way that ensures they are not depleted or destroyed. This can be achieved through sustainable practices such as recycling, reducing waste, and using renewable energy sources.

Protecting ecosystems

Protecting ecosystems is another important aspect of environmental sustainability. Ecosystems provide us with essential services such as clean air and water, and support biodiversity. Human activities such as deforestation, overfishing, and pollution can damage ecosystems and reduce their ability to provide these services. To protect ecosystems, it is important to reduce our impact on the environment and preserve natural habitats.

Reducing waste and pollution

Reducing waste and pollution is a crucial aspect of environmental sustainability. Waste and pollution can harm the environment and human health, and can also be costly to manage. To reduce waste and pollution, it is important to adopt sustainable practices such as reducing, reusing, and recycling. This can help to conserve natural resources, reduce pollution, and save money.

In conclusion, environmental sustainability is the first pillar of sustainability and focuses on preserving natural resources, protecting ecosystems, and reducing waste and pollution. By adopting sustainable practices, we can ensure that the environment is protected for future generations.

Equity and fairness

Equity and fairness are central tenets of social sustainability. This refers to the principle that all individuals should have equal access to resources, opportunities, and benefits, regardless of their social, economic, or cultural background. This includes ensuring that everyone has access to basic needs such as food, water, shelter, and healthcare, as well as opportunities for education, employment, and social mobility. Achieving equity and fairness requires addressing systemic inequalities and promoting policies and practices that reduce disparities and promote equal access to resources and opportunities.

Inclusiveness and diversity

Inclusiveness and diversity are essential components of social sustainability. This means creating environments that embrace and value the unique experiences, perspectives, and contributions of individuals from diverse backgrounds, including race, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, religion, age, and ability. This requires fostering a culture of respect, empathy, and understanding, and actively working to eliminate discrimination, prejudice, and exclusion. Promoting inclusiveness and diversity is critical for building strong, resilient communities that can adapt to change and thrive in a diverse and interconnected world.

Empowerment of communities

Empowerment of communities is a key aspect of social sustainability. This involves enabling individuals and communities to take control of their lives and shape their own destinies. This can include providing access to information, resources, and skills training that empowers people to make informed decisions and take action to improve their lives. It also involves creating spaces for community engagement and participation in decision-making processes, and promoting policies and practices that prioritize community needs and perspectives. Empowering communities is essential for building resilience, fostering social cohesion, and ensuring that the benefits of sustainable development are shared equitably.

Growth and development

Economic sustainability is the ability of an economy to support long-term growth and development while preserving the natural environment and the well-being of its citizens. This involves striking a balance between economic growth, social equity, and environmental protection.

Prosperity and well-being

Prosperity and well-being are essential components of economic sustainability. An economy that prioritizes sustainable development will ensure that its citizens have access to good jobs, quality education, and affordable healthcare, among other essential services. By promoting sustainable economic growth, the economy can provide a high standard of living for its citizens while preserving the environment for future generations.

Ethical and responsible practices

Ethical and responsible practices are also critical for achieving economic sustainability. This includes promoting fair trade practices, reducing waste and pollution, and ensuring that resources are used efficiently and responsibly. It also involves creating policies and regulations that promote transparency, accountability, and social responsibility. By promoting ethical and responsible practices, businesses and governments can help ensure that economic growth is sustainable and beneficial to all members of society.

Preservation of heritage

Cultural sustainability refers to the preservation and protection of cultural heritage for future generations. This includes preserving historical sites, artifacts, and cultural traditions that are unique to a particular region or community. It is important to ensure that these cultural artifacts and traditions are not lost or forgotten, as they provide a valuable connection to a community’s past and help to define its identity.

Diversity and creativity

Cultural sustainability also involves promoting diversity and creativity within a community. This can include supporting local artists and cultural institutions, as well as encouraging the development of new cultural traditions and practices. By promoting diversity and creativity, communities can foster a sense of belonging and shared identity, while also contributing to the overall vitality and resilience of the community.

Education and awareness

Education and awareness are critical components of cultural sustainability. This includes educating individuals about the importance of preserving cultural heritage and promoting cultural diversity, as well as providing opportunities for individuals to learn about and participate in cultural traditions and practices. By increasing awareness and understanding of cultural sustainability, communities can work together to protect and promote their cultural heritage for future generations.

Key Elements of the Four Pillars of Sustainability

Integration and balance

Integration and balance refer to the interconnectedness of the four pillars of sustainability and the need for a holistic approach to achieve sustainable development. The four pillars – economic, social, environmental, and governance – are all interdependent and must be considered together in order to achieve sustainable outcomes.

Balancing the four pillars is crucial to ensuring that economic growth, social progress, environmental protection, and good governance are all advanced in a way that supports sustainable development. This requires a long-term perspective and a willingness to make trade-offs across different pillars in order to achieve a sustainable balance.

In practice, this means taking into account the potential impacts of economic activities on the environment and society, and ensuring that social and environmental considerations are integrated into decision-making processes. It also means recognizing that good governance is essential to ensure that decisions are made in the best interests of all stakeholders, including future generations.

Ultimately, integration and balance are critical to achieving sustainable development that meets the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs. By taking a holistic approach that considers the interconnections between the four pillars of sustainability, we can work towards a more sustainable future for all.

Adaptability and resilience

Adaptability and resilience are crucial components of the four pillars of sustainability. These concepts refer to the ability of individuals, communities, and ecosystems to respond to change and bounce back from challenges. In the context of sustainability, adaptability and resilience are essential for maintaining ecological balance, ensuring social equity, and promoting economic prosperity.

Here are some key aspects of adaptability and resilience in the context of sustainability:

• Ecological adaptability: This refers to the capacity of ecosystems to adjust to environmental changes, such as climate fluctuations or habitat destruction. Ecological adaptability is essential for maintaining biodiversity and preserving ecosystem services, which are crucial for human well-being. Examples of ecological adaptability include the evolution of plant species to adapt to different soil conditions or the migration of animals to track changes in climate.
• Social adaptability: This relates to the ability of human societies to cope with social, economic, and political changes. Social adaptability is necessary for addressing the challenges posed by rapid urbanization, population growth, and technological advancements. Examples of social adaptability include the development of innovative housing solutions for urban areas or the implementation of policies that promote gender equality and social inclusion.
• Economic resilience: This refers to the capacity of economic systems to withstand shocks and recover from disruptions. Economic resilience is important for maintaining economic growth, reducing poverty, and ensuring access to essential goods and services. Examples of economic resilience include the development of alternative livelihoods in areas affected by natural disasters or the promotion of local businesses to support community development.
• Cultural resilience: This relates to the ability of cultural systems to adapt to change while preserving their core values and traditions. Cultural resilience is important for maintaining cultural diversity, promoting social cohesion, and fostering a sense of identity. Examples of cultural resilience include the revitalization of indigenous languages or the preservation of traditional crafts and art forms.

In summary, adaptability and resilience are vital components of the four pillars of sustainability. By fostering ecological, social, economic, and cultural adaptability and resilience, we can create more sustainable and resilient communities that are better equipped to address the challenges of the 21st century.

Accountability and transparency

Definition of Accountability and Transparency

Accountability and transparency refer to the principles of being responsible and open in the decision-making process, ensuring that the outcomes of actions are justifiable and easily understandable to all parties involved.

Importance of Accountability and Transparency in Sustainability

Accountability and transparency are essential components of sustainability because they help organizations and individuals to take responsibility for their actions and to ensure that they are acting in the best interests of society and the environment.

Benefits of Accountability and Transparency

The benefits of accountability and transparency in sustainability include:

• Increased trust and credibility among stakeholders
• Improved decision-making based on accurate information
• Greater transparency in the supply chain and production processes
• Better communication and collaboration with stakeholders
• Improved reputation and brand image

Examples of Accountability and Transparency in Practice

Examples of accountability and transparency in practice include:

• Public reporting on sustainability performance
• Independent audits and certifications
• Participation in industry-wide initiatives and collaborations
• Stakeholder engagement and consultation
• Disclosure of information related to environmental, social, and governance (ESG) issues

Overall, accountability and transparency are critical components of sustainability that help organizations and individuals to take responsibility for their actions and to ensure that they are acting in the best interests of society and the environment. By incorporating these principles into their operations, organizations can build trust and credibility with stakeholders, improve decision-making, and enhance their reputation and brand image.

Partnerships and collaboration

Importance of Partnerships and Collaboration in Sustainability

In order to achieve sustainability, it is essential to build partnerships and collaborations across various sectors and stakeholders. This includes working with governments, non-governmental organizations (NGOs), private sector companies, and communities to create a holistic approach to sustainability. By collaborating, stakeholders can share knowledge, resources, and expertise to create a more effective and sustainable approach to development.

Benefits of Partnerships and Collaboration in Sustainability

There are several benefits to partnerships and collaboration in sustainability, including:

1. Increased knowledge and expertise: By working together, stakeholders can share their knowledge and expertise, leading to more informed decision-making and the development of more effective sustainability strategies.
2. Enhanced resources: Collaboration allows stakeholders to pool their resources, including financial, human, and technological resources, to achieve sustainability goals more effectively.
3. Improved accountability: Partnerships and collaborations can help to ensure that all stakeholders are held accountable for their contributions to sustainability, leading to more transparent and responsible decision-making.
4. Greater impact: By working together, stakeholders can have a greater impact on sustainability, as they can combine their efforts and resources to achieve shared goals.

Examples of Partnerships and Collaboration in Sustainability

There are many examples of successful partnerships and collaborations in sustainability, including:

1. The United Nations Global Compact, which brings together businesses, NGOs, and governments to promote sustainable business practices and the Ten Principles of the UN Global Compact.
2. The Clean Energy Ministerial, which brings together energy ministers and industry leaders to promote clean energy policies and practices.
3. The Sustainable Apparel Coalition, which brings together brands, retailers, and NGOs to promote sustainable practices in the apparel industry.

By working together, these partnerships and collaborations are able to create a more effective and sustainable approach to development, leading to positive outcomes for people, planet, and profit.

Implementing the Four Pillars of Sustainability

Individual actions

While the concept of sustainability is typically associated with large-scale actions taken by governments and corporations, individuals also play a crucial role in promoting sustainability. By adopting eco-friendly habits and practices, individuals can significantly contribute to achieving sustainability goals. In this section, we will explore some of the individual actions that can be taken to promote sustainability.

• Reduce waste: One of the most effective ways to promote sustainability is by reducing waste. This can be achieved by adopting a zero-waste lifestyle, where individuals try to minimize their waste generation. This can include using reusable bags, containers, and water bottles, as well as composting organic waste.
• Conserve energy: Energy conservation is another critical aspect of sustainability. Individuals can conserve energy by turning off lights and electronics when not in use, using energy-efficient appliances, and adjusting thermostat settings to reduce energy consumption.
• Reduce water usage: Water conservation is also essential for sustainability. Individuals can reduce their water usage by taking shorter showers, fixing leaks, and using water-efficient appliances.
• Support sustainable businesses: Supporting sustainable businesses is another way to promote sustainability. This can include purchasing products from companies that use eco-friendly practices, such as using renewable energy sources or sustainable materials.
• Advocate for sustainability: Finally, individuals can promote sustainability by advocating for sustainable policies and practices in their communities. This can include participating in environmental advocacy groups, supporting sustainable policies, and educating others about the importance of sustainability.

By adopting these individual actions, individuals can play a critical role in promoting sustainability and contributing to a more sustainable future.

Organizational actions

One of the key ways in which organizations can contribute to sustainability is by taking specific actions that support the four pillars of sustainability. These actions can include implementing sustainable practices and policies, supporting sustainable development initiatives, and engaging in responsible business practices.

Here are some examples of organizational actions that support the four pillars of sustainability:

Economic Sustainability

• Developing and implementing sustainable business practices and policies
• Investing in renewable energy and energy-efficient technologies
• Promoting fair trade and ethical sourcing practices
• Supporting local economies through purchasing and investment decisions

Environmental Sustainability

• Implementing waste reduction and recycling programs
• Conserving energy and water through efficiency measures and retrofits
• Protecting and restoring natural habitats and ecosystems
• Promoting sustainable transportation and mobility options

Social Sustainability

• Supporting employee well-being and work-life balance
• Promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion in the workplace
• Engaging in philanthropic and community development initiatives
• Implementing responsible supply chain management practices

Governance Sustainability

• Ensuring transparency and accountability in decision-making processes
• Implementing ethical and responsible business practices
• Promoting stakeholder engagement and collaboration
• Developing and implementing sustainability reporting and performance metrics

Overall, organizational actions that support the four pillars of sustainability can have a significant impact on the ability of businesses and organizations to contribute to sustainable development. By adopting sustainable practices and policies, organizations can help to promote economic, environmental, social, and governance sustainability, and contribute to a more sustainable future.

Government actions

Governments play a crucial role in implementing the Four Pillars of Sustainability. They have the authority to create policies and regulations that promote sustainable practices and reduce negative impacts on the environment, society, and economy. Some examples of government actions include:

• Creating regulations and standards: Governments can establish regulations and standards that promote sustainable practices. For example, they can set standards for energy efficiency, water conservation, and waste reduction.
• Providing incentives: Governments can provide incentives for businesses and individuals to adopt sustainable practices. For example, they can offer tax credits for using renewable energy or providing healthcare coverage for employees.
• Investing in infrastructure: Governments can invest in infrastructure that promotes sustainability. For example, they can build public transportation systems, bike lanes, and green spaces.
• Promoting education and awareness: Governments can promote education and awareness about sustainability issues. For example, they can provide resources and information about recycling, energy conservation, and environmental protection.
• Collaborating with other countries: Governments can collaborate with other countries to address global sustainability challenges. For example, they can participate in international agreements on climate change, biodiversity, and human rights.

By taking these actions, governments can help to promote sustainability and create a better future for everyone.

Global actions

In order to effectively implement the Four Pillars of Sustainability, global actions must be taken. These actions require collaboration and cooperation among governments, international organizations, and individuals across the world. Here are some of the key global actions that can be taken:

1. Adopting Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs):
   The United Nations General Assembly adopted the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development in 2015, which includes 17 SDGs. These goals aim to end poverty, protect the planet and ensure that all people

Measuring success

When it comes to implementing the Four Pillars of Sustainability, it is important to measure success in order to evaluate progress and identify areas for improvement. There are several key indicators that can be used to measure success in each of the Four Pillars.

Economic sustainability is concerned with maintaining a healthy and diverse economy that provides for the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs. Some key indicators of economic sustainability include:

• Gross Domestic Product (GDP) per capita
• Unemployment rate
• Inflation rate
• Balance of trade
• Public debt as a percentage of GDP

Environmental sustainability is concerned with preserving the natural environment and protecting ecosystems for future generations. Some key indicators of environmental sustainability include:

• Carbon emissions per capita
• Water use per capita
• Land use per capita
• Biodiversity indices
• Waste generation per capita

Social sustainability is concerned with creating a just and equitable society that provides for the needs of all members of the community. Some key indicators of social sustainability include:

• Income inequality
• Education attainment
• Health outcomes
• Crime rates
• Access to basic services such as housing, healthcare, and education

Cultural Sustainability

Cultural sustainability is concerned with preserving and promoting cultural heritage and diversity. Some key indicators of cultural sustainability include:

• Preservation of historic and cultural sites
• Cultural heritage tourism
• Language preservation and revitalization
• Support for the arts and cultural institutions

Measuring success in each of these areas can help to identify strengths and weaknesses in the implementation of the Four Pillars of Sustainability. It can also provide a basis for setting goals and developing strategies to promote sustainable development in the future.

The future of sustainability

As the world continues to evolve, the future of sustainability is becoming increasingly important. In order to ensure that we are able to meet the needs of future generations, it is crucial that we continue to develop and implement sustainable practices. Here are some key areas that will play a critical role in shaping the future of sustainability:

Renewable Energy

One of the most significant challenges facing the world today is the need to transition to a low-carbon economy. This means that we must shift away from fossil fuels and towards renewable energy sources such as wind, solar, and hydro power. This will not only help to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, but it will also create new jobs and drive economic growth.

Circular Economy

Another important aspect of the future of sustainability is the circular economy. This is an economic system that is designed to be regenerative and restorative. It aims to eliminate waste and the continual use of resources, and instead focuses on keeping resources in use for as long as possible. This approach has the potential to create new business opportunities and generate significant cost savings.

Sustainable Transportation

Transportation is a major contributor to greenhouse gas emissions, and it is therefore essential that we find ways to reduce our reliance on fossil fuels in this sector. This could involve the development of electric and hydrogen-powered vehicles, as well as the promotion of active transportation such as walking and cycling. In addition, the development of smart transportation systems that optimize routes and reduce congestion could also play a key role in reducing emissions.

Sustainable Urban Development

As the world becomes increasingly urbanized, it is important that we find ways to make our cities more sustainable. This could involve the development of green infrastructure such as parks and green roofs, as well as the promotion of sustainable building practices. In addition, the development of sustainable transportation systems and the promotion of local food systems could also help to make our cities more sustainable.

Overall, the future of sustainability will require a multifaceted approach that involves the development and implementation of a range of sustainable practices. By focusing on renewable energy, the circular economy, sustainable transportation, and sustainable urban development, we can create a more sustainable future for all.

Call to action

• The call to action is a crucial component of implementing the Four Pillars of Sustainability.
• It involves taking concrete steps towards achieving sustainability, rather than simply talking about it.
• A call to action can take many forms, such as making a personal commitment to live more sustainably, advocating for policy changes, or supporting businesses that prioritize sustainability.
• By taking action, individuals and organizations can contribute to the global effort towards sustainability and help create a better future for all.
• The call to action requires individuals and organizations to take responsibility for their impact on the environment and society, and to work towards reducing their negative impact while promoting positive change.
• It is important to remember that sustainability is not just a buzzword, but a critical issue that affects us all.
• Therefore, it is imperative that we take action to address it, and the Four Pillars of Sustainability provide a useful framework for guiding our efforts.

Final thoughts

In conclusion, the Four Pillars of Sustainability – Environmental, Social, Economic, and Governance – provide a comprehensive framework for organizations to achieve sustainable development. While each pillar is distinct, they are interconnected and must be addressed collectively to achieve long-term success. By implementing sustainable practices across all four pillars, organizations can create value for all stakeholders, build trust and reputation, and contribute to a more sustainable future.

It is important to note that sustainability is not a one-time effort, but a continuous journey that requires ongoing monitoring, evaluation, and improvement. Organizations must stay informed about emerging trends, engage with stakeholders, and adapt to changing circumstances to remain competitive and relevant. By doing so, they can build resilience, navigate risks, and seize opportunities in a rapidly evolving business landscape.

In summary, the Four Pillars of Sustainability offer a holistic approach to sustainable development that addresses the interdependent challenges of the 21st century. By prioritizing environmental responsibility, social equity, economic prosperity, and good governance, organizations can create a better future for all, while achieving their strategic objectives and long-term success.

FAQs

1. What are the four types of sustainability?

The four types of sustainability are: environmental sustainability, social sustainability, economic sustainability, and cultural sustainability.

2. What is environmental sustainability?

Environmental sustainability refers to the ability of the earth’s ecosystems to support the needs of present and future generations. It involves protecting and preserving natural resources, reducing waste and pollution, and promoting conservation efforts.

3. What is social sustainability?

Social sustainability refers to the ability of society to meet the needs of its citizens and to ensure that all members of society have equal access to resources and opportunities. It involves addressing issues such as poverty, inequality, and discrimination, and promoting social justice and human rights.

4. What is economic sustainability?

Economic sustainability refers to the ability of an economy to maintain its growth and stability over time. It involves promoting economic development that is equitable, sustainable, and inclusive, and ensuring that economic growth does not come at the expense of the environment or the well-being of society.

5. What is cultural sustainability?

Cultural sustainability refers to the ability of a culture to maintain its identity and traditions over time. It involves preserving and promoting cultural heritage, diversity, and expression, and ensuring that cultural practices are sustainable and do not harm the environment or society.