Sustainability encompasses the following elements:
Environment represents ecological considerations of preserving and restoring the health of living systems. All life on the planet depends on ecosystems to purify air and water, pollinate crops, provide food, recycle waste, and circulate atmospheric gases, chemical elements, and energy.
Social refers to social equity, including freedom from unhealthy living conditions and equal access to food, water, employment, education, and healthcare. It allows all people the opportunity to lead thriving, productive lives.
Economics within a sustainability framework refers to an economic system that can continue over the long term, distributing resources fairly where individuals are able to meet their basic human needs.
Culture is emerging out of the realm of social sustainability and is being recognized as having a separate, distinct, and integral role in sustainable development that encompasses distinctive spiritual, material, intellectual, and emotional features.