Based on their etymology, “sustentable” and “sustainable” do not mean the same thing; however, we often use both words as adjectives to describe environmentally friendly processes and activities. Unfortunately, they are not synonyms, and using them interchangeably to refer to a single concept is incorrect.
The difference between "sustentable" and "sustainable" isn't that hard to understand; each term has characteristics that set it apart. Below, we explain their respective characteristics.
SUSTAINABILITY.
The Dictionary of the Spanish Language defines sustainability as “that which can be supported or defended with reason.”
Sustainable developmentinvolves makingproper use of current resources without compromising those of future generations. Such development includes sustainable processes designed to preserve, protect, and conserve current and future natural resources. It does not take into account the specific cultural, political, and social needs of human beings.
Herman Daly, an American ecological economist, professor, and recipient of the 1996 Alternative Nobel Prize (also known as the Right Livelihood Award), defined several principles of sustainability.
- Renewable resourcesshould not be used at a rate faster than they are generated.
- Pollutantsmust not be produced at a rate that exceeds the rate at which they can be recycled, neutralized, or absorbed by the environment.
- Nonon-renewable resourceshall be exploited at a rate faster than that required to replace it with a renewable resource used in a sustainable manner.
Daly also argues that we should promote technologies that increase the productivity of natural resources (yielding greater benefits from the use of those resources) and phase out those that require more natural resources to produce the same output.
SUSTAINABILITY
It refers to the pursuit of social and economic progress that ensures a healthy and productive life for people today, without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs.
Given the global importance of natural resources and the need for their rational use in accordance with Daly’s principles, sustainability seekssocial development that contributes toimproving the quality of life, health, education, and cultureof all people.
AtGDI, we are convinced that by implementing these types of initiatives, the world will become more inclusive, improving the quality of life for everyone. That is why, atGDI, we put both of these concepts into practice: we care about the future of the ecosystem and strive to use all natural resources responsibly. We seek the appropriate way to carry out our work in accordance with the relevant human processes, taking into account constant innovation, without neglecting environmental stewardship—striving to minimize waste and seeking alternatives for supplies that are environmentally friendly.