The principle of sustainability
Sustainable action means using the earth’s raw materials and resources with future generations in mind. We should not consume more than can grow back, regenerate or be replenished.
Sustainability, or sustainable development, means living in a way today that will also allow people in the future to live well. We must not live today at the expense of tomorrow. Sustainable action starts now – and will shape the future. Sustainability encompasses environmental, economic and social aspects.
- Ecological sustainability means: When using natural resources such as soil, water, oil, wood or coal, we must keep future generations in mind and refrain from consuming more than can be replenished naturally.
- Economic sustainability means: Profit is not the only priority. Promoting fair trade, environmental protection and social justice should take precedence.
- Social sustainability means: Enabling all people to live a worthy life by protecting human dignity, labour rights and human rights.
- Protects the climate, soil, water, air, biodiversity, animal welfare and human health;
- produces high-quality food in sufficient quantities without causing harm to future generations;
- sources inputs (feed, fertiliser, crop protection products, seed and planting material) as much as possible from the local region and also sells its products locally;
- ensures good employment opportunities and working conditions for its workers.
We can all help to reduce pollution and conserve resources through our consumption habits. It is generally best to buy food from the local region and to pay attention to when domestic fruit and vegetables are in season. By shopping this way, we can protect the environment and climate while also supporting local farmers.