Kestlikuma

Kestlikuma is a neologism used in sustainability discourse to denote something that is more sustainable than a chosen reference point. It can be applied to products, buildings, processes, policies, or practices that demonstrate higher long-term viability, lower environmental impact, and greater resilience for people and ecosystems. As a coined term, kestlikuma does not have a single formal definition or standard measurement, but is meant to signal progress toward more sustainable outcomes.

Usage and context: The term appears in planning discussions, design briefs, corporate sustainability reports, and policy debates, typically as a comparative goal or target. When used, it implies improvements in areas such as resource efficiency, circularity, social equity, and life-cycle performance relative to a baseline or past practice.

Etymology and status: Kestlikuma is formed from kestlik, a root associated with sustainability, with no fixed official inflection. It is a linguistic coinage rather than a registered technical term, and its acceptance varies among communities and languages. The concept is often employed descriptively rather than as a formal standard.

Examples: A kestlikuma building may feature lower embodied energy and higher adaptive reuse; a kestlikuma supply chain may prioritize recycling, local sourcing, and energy reduction; a kestlikuma policy may aim for long-term affordability, resilience, and reduced emissions. These examples illustrate how the term is used to compare improvements over previous iterations.

See also: sustainability; sustainable design; circular economy; life-cycle assessment.