This report updates the first 20 indicators, published in the 1993 report, and adds 20 more to complete a set of 40. The data we have collected is our best effort at identifying and displaying relevant information, ranging from readily accessible public information to syntheses based on research to reliance on public opinion polling and other subjective information. Each indicator measures an important dimension of sustainability. In addition, some indicators have been added or deleted from the original list of 40 in response to new information or valuable criticism. In fact, since the world is always changing, so will the picture of a sustainable society.
Sustainability is more a process than a goal.
These Indicators will be updated and improved annually. We continue to invite your feedback and criticism. But our attention now must turn to action. We should celebrate this positive movement for it affirms our hope that we can create a sustainable society, and we should work to ensure these trends continue. Other aspects, however, are rapidly moving away from sustainability, and demand urgent attention from as many of us as possible.