Ecosystems do not, and cannot, expand their life- sustaining capacities in response to the expanding desires of cultures or exploding global populations. We must, instead, look within ourselves as we move towards a sustainable life. The solutions lie not in better technology but in addressing our cultural beliefs and practices that are disrupting the capacities of ecosystems to sustain themselves. The following definitions of sustainability are a collection from various sources, books, individuals and groups such as Sustainable Seattle. Hopefully each will make you think about your values.
Sustainability is equity over time.
As a value, it refers to giving equal weight in your decisions to the future as well as the present. The viability, integrity, and diversity of natural systems are restored and maintained. They lead to enhanced local and regional self-reliance. We certainly don't want the existing world structure to be sustainable. We want to improve it.