COP 29: Reflections on the Definition of Sustainability

Over the next week, politicians, diplomats, and scientists will convene in Baku, Azerbaijan, to discuss the issue of climate change. Around 200 countries are expected to be represented at the Conference of Parties (COP), with UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer already giving a speech committing the UK to an 81% reduction in emissions by 2035. The conference will undoubtedly use complex science and principles to underpin high-level negotiations. We wanted to go right back to basics – what is sustainability?

Our Student Ambassador, Edward, explores the term sustainability and how it has impacted his time at Coventry University.

The United Nations Brundtland Commission defined sustainability as “meeting the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs” and “developed the Sustainable Development Goals as a framework for improving the lives of populations around the world and mitigating the hazardous man-made effects of climate change.”[i] While the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) Sustainability Committee defines sustainability as: “the integration of environmental health, social quality and economic vitality to create thriving, healthy, diverse and resilient communities for this generation and generations to come.”[ii] Simply put, sustainability does little or no environmental harm.[iii]

The concept of sustainability relates to the maintenance and enhancement of environmental, social and economic resources, to meet the needs of current and future generations,[iv] in such a way that the extraction of non-renewable resources such as oil and gas should be conducted in such a way that the environment’s ability to absorb waste is not overwhelmed.[v]

At first glance, sustainability can appear both abstract and ubiquitous at the same time. It seems familiar yet difficult to pin down. But if given a little thought, it’s an innate concept that requires little proof of its efficacy in nature. It’s all around us, but you just must be willing to see it before you actually can.

So then, what is sustainability? It is the presupposition that resources are finite and that without conservative utilization of these scarce resources, the present will have nothing to bequeath to the future. ‘The practice of sustainability recognizes how these issues are interconnected and requires a systems approach and an acknowledgement of complexity.’[i]

To me, sustainability is all about the wellbeing of people, because the most effective way to look after people is to look after the environment. If you care for people, you will take action to make the world better. Sustainability is a way to make the world better and any one can do it. For instance, studying International commercial law at Coventry University gave me an opportunity to be part of the solution in the move towards sustainability. This happened in two folds, one was practical and the other abstract, I’ll explain.

Theoretically, I took environmental law module that had sustainability was embedded in it, although this was an abstract method of engaging with the subject, it provided valuable insights as to the legal framework necessary to effectively incorporate sustainability in everyday life. An example of this is the reason why, there is a global shift away from the one-use plastic bags while the adoption of a more sustainable alternatives has become the norm. Although not a sliver bullet to end climate change, but it’s a step in the right direction.

Practically, I joined the sustainability movement on campus and was a part of almost every event I could find. For instance, I got to be part of the Fairtrade University and College Awards 2024[ii], as an auditor. The Fairtrade Awards are granted by the Fairtrade Foundation and Students Organizing for Sustainability UK (SOS-UK), and it gives recognition to institutions that have embedded ethical and sustainable practices through their curriculum, procurement, research and campaigns. I am particularly proud of this.

I also took part in a lot of biodiversity events on campus. Spending time in nature is therapeutic and fun. One day, I was learning about the economic and environmental impact of bees[iii] in the UK during the World Bee Day[iv], the next, ecological contributions of hedge hogs and the importance of protect them and their habitat.

In conclusion, sustainability is not just a concept; it’s a commitment to creating a better world for both present and future generations. It’s about recognizing the interconnectedness of environmental health, social equity, and economic vitality. My journey at Coventry University has deepened my understanding of sustainability, both theoretically and practically. By engaging with environmental law and actively participating in sustainability initiatives on campus, I’ve seen first-hand how small, conscious actions can lead to significant positive change. Sustainability begins with caring for people and making choices that reflect this care, ensuring a thriving world for generations to come.