The classic definition of sustainable development was articulated in the 1987 report of the World Commission on Environment and Development.   The report, titled Our Common Future, stated: “Sustainable development is development that meets the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs.”   Subsequently, people around the world have struggled to make this definition operational.   Many of them agree that sustainability has three major dimensions:   environmental; economic; and social.   A sustainable civilization must be sustainable across all three dimensions.  

Creation of a sustainable civilization is a vast effort that has scarcely begun.   It involves the exciting challenge of adapting new and old technologies and behaviors in a long-term global context.   While daunting, this challenge can be met with intellectual and moral tools that have deep roots in cultures around the world.   IRSS contributes to the transition to sustainability by working on selected issues, with a variety of partners.   Our programs on global human security help to provide an enabling context for sustainability.   IRSS activities in our Sustainable Development program area are directed by Dr. Gordon Thompson.   These activities have occurred within the following categories:  

• Education for sustainability

• Sustainable communities

• Technologies and practices for reducing environmental impacts