Kestlikkus

Kestlikkus, or sustainability, refers to the ability to meet present needs without compromising the ability of future generations to meet theirs. It integrates environmental stewardship, economic viability, and social equity, and emphasizes long-term planning and resilience across systems such as energy, resources, and ecosystems.

The concept gained prominence with the Brundtland Report in 1987, which framed sustainable development as a balance among environmental, economic, and social objectives. Since then, policy makers, businesses, and researchers have developed instruments to measure and advance kestlikkus, including sustainability reporting, lifecycle assessment, circular economy approaches, renewable energy adoption, and green design.

In practice, kestlikkus is pursued through goals such as reducing greenhouse gas emissions, promoting resource efficiency, protecting biodiversity, ensuring fair labor practices, and fostering inclusive growth. It is operationalized at multiple levels—from international frameworks like the Sustainable Development Goals to national policies and corporate governance.

Challenges include balancing short-term costs with long-term benefits, integrating diverse indicators, and aligning economic incentives with environmental and social outcomes. Critics argue for more precise metrics and clearer accountability. Despite these issues, kestlikkus remains a central framework for planning and decision-making in many regions, guiding how societies use resources, protect ecosystems, and distribute opportunities over time.