First, we identify the actions we wish to evaluate. Next, we identify the stakeholders. These are the people and institutions that may be affected by these actions. We identify the possible long-term impacts, both good and bad, on our environment, economy, health and well being of society. Bad results show us where the problems are.
Good results show opportunities for sustainable action.
We can now propose solutions to any problems identified, and examine any opportunities we have found. There will be a number of different options. After we've considered these options, we can make informed decisions, creating a plan with sustainable principles in mind. Then we act, implementing the plan. Now we can see the results of our actions.