Sustainability is the term used to describe developments that meet the needs of today without compromising the ability to meet the needs of tomorrow. Ecologically Sustainable Development (ESD) emphasis that the human community is an element of the Earth Community not the other way around. All human endeavours are situated within the dynamics of the earth and its atmosphere. If we wish to have sustainable institutions and enterprises, they must fit well with the processes of the Earth.

In practice this means that organisations who are focused on greening their offices will consider:

Closing the Loop

Companies will emulate the natural systems as closely as possible and ensure that their waste is recycled where ever possible and that they purchase recycled goods to ensure the loop is closed. Where ever possible products should be purchased that are biodegradable and therefore fit within the natural systems.

Efficient Resource Use

Resources obtained from the earths crust and surface such as water, oil and timber should only be used at the rate at which they can be replaced. Where their use is unavoidable or the best available option companies should aim to use them as efficiently as possible.

Use of Renewable Energy

Companies will aim to use renewable forms of energy where ever possible

Achieve No-Toxicity

Products to be used within the office environment should have zero toxic effect on the natural environment. Companies should aim to reverse the build up of toxic chemicals in the environment.