Sustainability is everywhere these days — in the news, in classrooms and even in the way our favorite brands market their products.
As Nathan Glover, a natural science faculty member at Grand Canyon University, puts it: "Sustainability means using Earth’s natural resources to meet current needs without compromising future generations. It requires thoughtful decisions that reduce waste, pollution and harm to ecosystems — and it’s about living within the planet’s ecological limits."
Faculty College of Natural Sciences
According to Glover, the three pillars of sustainability — environmental, social and economic — work together to support ecosystems, equity and economic health. He adds, “True sustainability balances all three without sacrificing one for another.”
From major corporations to small towns, sustainability is gaining traction. Explore practical examples of environmental sustainability and see how leading companies are putting these principles into action.
- Patagonia: The outdoor clothing company reinvests in environmental activism and uses recycled materials. They donate 1% of sales to environmental causes, giving over $140 million to grassroots groups worldwide since 1985.1
- Boulder, Colorado: Through bold climate policies, grassroots campaigns and cross-sector programs — from the nation’s first carbon tax to regenerative agriculture and zero-waste initiatives, Colorado leads in sustainability.2
- Unilever: This global brand set aggressive waste and emissions targets, proving that sustainability and profitability can go hand in hand. Their 2030 goals include a 30.3% reduction in forest, land and agriculture emissions.3
“The success of these corporations shows how values-driven leadership can drive sustainable change,” says Glover. “Businesses can begin small with energy-efficient lighting, waste reduction and local sourcing, which are often backed by grants, tax incentives and partnerships. Even small changes can reduce costs and build brand loyalty.”
