The term “green” relates to doing something to help protect our natural resources, like water, land, air or the environment in some way. A commonly accepted definition of sustainability, however, is meeting the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs.

To “be green” or “go green” is to check off an item from a task list that addresses one issue, like using a refillable water bottle to reduce waste. To “be sustainable” or “sustainability” is take actions and make decisions that will simultaneously and inclusively support environmental health and economic prosperity regionally, nationally and globally.

The Moraine Valley Community College Board of Trustees on Jan. 18, 2011, adopted a formal statement of sustainability, which proclaims:

Moraine Valley Community College will carry out actions in all operations, academics, and in our community that meet current needs, while taking care to protect and enhance the social, environmental and economic resources needed by future generations to enjoy a quality of life equal to or greater than the present.

Glossary of Green and Sustainability Terms and Concepts

Jobs in the Green Economy and Sustainability