Defining Green

While there are many definitions of "green" or "sustainable design," the one most commonly used looks at meeting the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their needs. True sustainability embraces a commitment to see the world as interconnected, to understand the impacts our actions have on others and our environment, and—most important—to love the children of all species who will inherit the world we leave behind. To become truly sustainable, it is important to equally address social sustainability, economic sustainability, and environmental sustainability like three legs holding up a stool.

Sustainability is a very complex subject that is often misunderstood. It is much more encompassing than simply being environmentally friendly, and includes more than simply reducing, reusing, and recycling. Sustainability requires a new awareness: of the world with integrated natural systems and species, of the delicate balance between our individual and collective actions, and of the ways those choices will ultimately affect our children and the environment.

Standard Definitions

A sampling of standard definitions of sustainability follows.

"Sustainable development is development that meets the needs of the present without compromising the ability of the future generations to meet their own needs."

-World Commission on Environment and Sustainability
(Brundtland Commission, 1987)

"A dynamic process which enables all people to realize their potential and to improve their quality of life in ways that simultaneously protect and enhance the Earth's life support systems."

- Forum for the Future

"Sustainability is the achievement of policies and procedures which are environmentally sound, economically viable and socially just."

- The University of Wisconsin- Madison,
Center for Integrated Agricultural Systems

"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. You might think of it as extending the Golden Rule through time, so that you do onto future generations (as well as your present fellow beings) as you would have them do onto you."

-Robert Gilman, Director, Context Institute

"Our vision is of a life-sustaining earth. We are committed to the achievement of a dignified, peaceful, and equitable existence. We believe a sustainable United States will have an economy that equitably provides opportunities for satisfying livelihoods and a safe, healthy, high-quality of life for current and future generations. Our nation will protect its environment, its natural resource base, and the functions and viability on which all life depends."

-The President's Council on Sustainable Development
(1993-1999), mission statement

Defining Green in an Exhibit Context

But what does this mean when trying to build green exhibits? We must challenge ourselves to think differently and work toward new solutions in everyday design and fabrication decisions. We must make sure that all construction materials help minimize waste, are safe and long-lasting, contribute to healthy lives, and—at their best—enhance the life systems that support us.

While some institutions may evaluate the impact materials have on environmental life cycles, or make exhibits that contribute to regeneration of our environment, others may simply switch to paints that are less toxic as a starting point. Sustainability is not about getting it all perfect right away. It's about working toward changing the way we do business in honor of the children we serve. Start small or start big: just start.