When we look at the anatomy of the word sustainability, what do we get?
So there is all this talk about sustainability, right? Well, what does it really mean? Let’s take the word, stick it under a microscope and see what we come up with when we dissect this apart.
The name sustainability is derived from the Latin sustinere (tenere, to hold; sub, under). Sustain can mean "maintain", "support", or "endure". Since the 1980s sustainability has been used more in the sense of human sustainability on planet Earth and this has resulted in the most widely quoted definition of sustainability as a part of the concept sustainable development, that of the Brundtland Commission of the United Nations on March 20, 1987: "sustainable development is development that meets the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs
•sustain
• ability
Sustain is derived from the Latin sustinere
• sus = from below
• tenere = to hold
Ability is used here as a suffix, derived from the Latin abilitas It forms a noun of quality corresponding to adjectives ending in able (sustainable)-so what is able?
• Able = having the quality to
In the coming decades, the survival of humanity will depend on our ecological literacy-our ability to understand the basic principles of ecology and to live accordingly. This means that eco-literacy must become a critical skill for politicians, business leaders, and professionals in all spheres, and should be the most important part of education at all levels-from primary and secondary schools to colleges, universities, and the continuing education and training of professionals.(Capra, 2008)
It is a lot to take in all at once but let's share the responsibility. In our own lives, where can we look to begin living more sustainably? How about what we eat? Just by buying fresh foods we begin eliminating packaging waste. By supporting local organic growers we make a significant change by breaking the chains of big corporations. We also are investing in our community and health. It’s a win-win all around.
Check out this video on Operation Sustainability: The worlds most important customer.
Sustainability is a condition of existence which enables the present generation of humans and other species to enjoy social well-being, a vibrant economy, and a healthy environment, and to experience fulfillment, beauty, and joy, without compromising the ability of future generations of human and other species to enjoy the same.” (Guy Dauncey,1999)
The DYGUP & SUSTAIN Program is a non-profit dedicated to regenerative organic agricultural practices to teach the benefits of land stewardship in the Paso del Norte Region. DYGUP, an acronym for Developing Youth from the Ground Up, is available to youth ages 14-17. The SUSTAIN program targets adults over 18 and combines "Roots Of Success" Environmental Literacy Curriculum with intensive farmer training. The DYGUP/ Sustain Program has many partnerships in the community including Taylor Hood Farms, Backyard Farms LC, First Christian Church, and Las Cruces High-School. Chihuahuan Desert Charities is proud to be the fiscal sponsor for DYGUP & Sustain and support their important work in the Las Cruces community.
Support the DYGUP & Sustain Program at Legacy Farm in Las Cruces by visiting ChihuahuanDesertCharities.org