What Actually Is Sustainability?

Sustainability. We've all heard the word getting tossed around, and paired with related phrases like “eco-friendly”, “carbon neutral”, “renewable”, “green”, etc - but what does it actually mean? And are companies being genuine when they claim they operate “sustainably”? According to the Cambridge Dictionary, sustainability is about causing minimal damage to the environment and ensuring long-term continuity. In brief, it’s about looking after the planet so that we can still viably live on it in the future.

Sustainability encompasses three essential pillars: Environment, Economy, and Society. Together, these pillars lay the foundation for a harmonious and prosperous world.

🌿 Environment: Preserving Nature's Balance

When we think of sustainability, the environment is often the first thing that comes to mind. Environmental sustainability focuses on maintaining the delicate balance of ecological systems. It involves ensuring that the natural resources within these systems are consumed by humans at a rate where they can replenish themselves. By safeguarding our ecosystems, we secure a flourishing planet for generations to come.

💼 Economy: Nurturing Communities

In the grand tapestry of sustainability, the economic aspect is often overlooked. However, it plays a crucial role in our collective well-being. Economic sustainability is about empowering human communities to be self-sufficient and providing them with access to the resources they need to meet their needs and secure their sources of livelihood. It paves the way for thriving societies that can weather the storms of change.

🤝 Society: Empowering Humanity

Lastly, we arrive at social sustainability, where the spotlight shines on universal human rights and the fulfillment of basic necessities for all. Similar to economic sustainability, social sustainability entails ensuring access to ample resources that keep communities healthy and secure. Vibrant societies flourish under the guidance of leaders who prioritise integrity, respect personal and cultural rights, and protect people from discrimination.


Sustainability is the convergence of Environment, Economy, and Society. It requires a delicate balance and collective effort to make a lasting impact. By embracing this holistic approach, we can forge a path towards a brighter future—one where our planet thrives, our communities prosper, and all individuals find their rightful place.

Many companies have jumped on the ever growing consumer interest in sustainability - claiming their products are “green” or use recycled materials, that they mitigate their impact on the environment through “carbon offset” programs, etc - but unfortunately this can sometimes be misleading. A practice called “greenwashing” has sprung up, where corporations update their packaging to look “greener” or put out marketing materials laden with buzzwords to big-note their commitment to sustainability… and at times this is no more than corporate smoke and mirrors. 

Only businesses who are fully committed to the 3 core pillars (Environment, Economy, Society) and embed it into the DNA of who they are - it can’t be an afterthought or sales tactic.

At Premium Ecology, we were founded on these very principles, and will only work with suppliers and vendors that share our passion for protecting our planet - without sacrificing the kind of quality and great design that we value highly - join us today and start shopping in a truly sustainable store!

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