Don’t let words hold you back
Cut through the jargon technical language used by a particular group and get clear, easy-to-understand explanations of sustainability terms.
It can be frustrating when you don’t understand the conversation or feel unprepared to join in. Firstly: don’t be afraid to ask. Secondly: this page is here to help.
This page will constantly get updated with new words and phrases that we hear out there, or get in touch with ones you want explained.
Sustainability (noun. The name for the concept)
“The ability to maintain or support a process over time”
Wtf does it mean to you as an individual? It asks “Can you maintain the way you are living in the future?”
answer: not likely
In the business world, it’s pretty similar. “Are what companies are doing right now maintainable into the future?”
answer: not likely
Climate Change
So it used to be global warming.. but climate change was more inclusive of all the shit we are dealing with not just warming.
It is literally about the Earth's usual weather patterns (climate) changing over time.
“Because we are so reliant and impacted by our climate it is kinda a big deal that it’s changing.”
Greenhouse Gases (GHGs)
This concept explains what causes the warming effect. Greenhouse gases, like carbon dioxide, methane, and nitrous oxide, trap heat in the Earth's atmosphere, much like how a greenhouse keeps plants warm. These gases are responsible for the greenhouse effect, which is causing the Earth to warm up. The issue is that we have too much of these gases in the atmosphere
Carbon Emissions
This term refers to the measurement or output. Carbon emissions are the release of gases, particularly carbon dioxide, into the atmosphere when we burn fossil fuels like coal, oil, and gas. These emissions contribute to the greenhouse effect and climate change. Reducing carbon emissions is crucial to slowing down global warming and protecting the environment.
“The amount of those (GHG) gases being released into the atmosphere”
Carbon Footprint
You’ll hear this term when talking about the total amount of greenhouse gases emitted by an individual, organisation, or activity.
We measure this in weight—like kilograms and tons. E.g. A round-trip flight from New Zealand to the USA can produce about 2-3 tons of CO2 per passenger, significantly contributing to your carbon footprint.
Renewable Energy
This is energy from sources that don’t run out because they’re constantly being made by nature. Like wind, solar (from the sun), and water power.
Biodiversity
The different types of plants, animals, and tiny organisms (microorganisms) in an area aka Ecosystem.
Circular Economy
An approach where we try to use things again and again to avoid waste and keep resources in use.
Social Justice
“Fairness for all”
"Social" just means people—communities, groups, society. But let’s be real, "people justice" sounds dumb.
At its core, justice is about fairness—making sure resources, opportunities, and privileges aren’t just for a select few but shared in a way that works for everyone.
Equity
is how we get there. It’s not about giving everyone the same thing—it’s about giving people what they need to have a fair shot.
Because fairness isn’t one-size-fits-all.
“Remember: Fairness is subjective”
Inclusion
Actively involving diverse groups of people in decision-making processes and creating environments where everyone feels welcomed and valued.
“basically: value diversity”
Privilege
Extra benefits or advantages some people get because of their identity, which others might not have.
Advocacy
Efforts to promote and support a cause or policy, often to influence public opinion or government policy.
Marginalisation
The process of pushing certain groups to the edge of society, making it harder for them to get resources and opportunities.
Systemic Racism
When laws, policies, and practices create and keep racial inequalities in place.
