Sunday - January 13, 2002: What Is Sustainability?

By Greg Mazurkiewicz

ATLANTIC CITY, NJ - “Should a sustainable building last forever?” it was asked at the forum “What is Sustainability and How Can It Be Achieved?” One attendee nodded yes, then another. It was noted that we should probably look at perpetuity, except for the resources used.

When we examine sustainability, all natural systems need to considered, one engineer said. You have to look at biodiversity.

Another engineer stated that an open definition is needed. "We often start talking sustainability but the subject usually moves over to energy efficiency, which is a more limited focus."

An English engineer stated that efficiency can be joined to sustainability. "We’re talking about using fossil fuels and how best to use them to achieve sustainability."

Publication date: 01/14/2002

Looking for quick answers on air conditioning, heating and refrigeration topics? Try Ask ACHR NEWS, our new smart AI search tool. Ask ACHR NEWS

Looking for a reprint of this article?
From high-res PDFs to custom plaques, order your copy today!

Greg Mazurkiewicz is Web Editor. He can be contacted at 248-244-6459 or gregmazurkiewicz@achrnews.com. Greg handles the day-to-day operations of The NEWS' website, www.achrnews.com, including the Extra Edition page, which offers additional online-exclusive articles. He has 40 years of experience as a writer and editor. He holds a bachelor's degree in Journalism and a master's degree in Business Management.