Interdependence is a complex concept with other concepts sitting inside it. These other concepts are described in relation to the four aspects of sustainability.
An ecosystem is all living things and physical features that are part of a network of interactions in an environment (for example, forest, wetland, suburban park). A healthy ecosystem relies on biodiversity (a range of different species) to function and to provide services (for example, food, clean water) to humans and other species.
A community is a group of people who interact with one another and develop partnerships in ways that contribute to collective well-being.
Cultural diversity encompasses the diverse worldviews that inform different ways of thinking, valuing and behaving that can affect actions for a sustainable future.
Democracy refers to political systems where people are able to express their views freely and to participate in decision-making. Collective decision-making that supports sustainability occurs by consensus so that all members of the community feel ownership of the decision.
Fair trade refers to the exchange of goods and services that equitably distributes benefits and costs. Mechanisms for trade exist that allow for goods and services to be freely exchanged both within the capacity of the region or planet and in ways that minimise impacts on the environment.
Last updated April 22, 2015