Social Sustainability__Definition and Importance

Did you recently stumble upon the term “Social Sustainability”? Well, you’re not alone. Even though it is one of the 3 pillars of sustainability, it’s overlooked more often than you’d think. In mainstream sustainability and sustainable development discussions, the planet’s health, climate change, and environmental topics usually take the center stage. While these are indeed pressing issues, sustainability does not only endorse environmental welfare. It is that sweet spot between people, profit, and the planet, representing social, economic, and environmental sustainability_ The 3 pillars of sustainability.

Social sustainability is the “People” dimension of sustainable development, and it is as important as the other two.

In this article, you’ll explore the definition of social sustainability and the details of this less-talked-about pillar of sustainability.

What is social sustainability?

Social sustainability is a framework that focuses on nurturing and sustaining the well-being of people and communities. The definition of social sustainability is the development of healthy, fair, and equal communities around the globe. It aims to create societies where everyone can enjoy equal opportunities and a quality life, regardless of background or socioeconomic status.

It emphasizes the importance of addressing social challenges such as inequality, poverty, and discrimination while fostering social cohesion and community resilience.

Why does it matter?

In the grand scheme of things, social sustainability is crucial for the well-being and longevity of our communities. It focuses on the human side of sustainability, which is often neglected in mainstream debates. While we hear a lot about renewable resources and low-carbon living, the social aspects—like equity, health, and community engagement—deserve equal attention.

These statistics will help you better understand the importance of sustainable societies.

• Education: According to UNESCO, about 250 million children and youth are out of school globally in 2023, a 6 million increase since 2021.

Education is the first step towards a quality life—lack of education limits opportunities for these children and youths. Social sustainability aims to improve access to education globally, paving the path to a quality life.

• Health: According to a joint report by the World Health Organization (WHO) and the World Bank, more than 50% of the global population, or about 4.5 billion people, lacked essential health services as of 2021.

Good health and well-being are essential in building strong and sustainable communities. Social sustainability focuses on reducing health inequalities and strives to provide quality health services to everyone.

• Equality: As of 2023, women, on average, made 16% less than men. While gender equality has been a hot topic for years, pay gap is still a norm today. This is a prime example of societal inequality, depicting why social sustainability is essential.
• Inclusion: In 2022, 8.5% of the global population lived in extreme poverty. Social sustainability promotes inclusive societies by reducing poverty and ensuring everyone gets equal opportunities regardless of background.

Challenges to Achieving Social Sustainability

While the goals of social sustainability are clear, achieving them is not free from challenges. Persistent inequalities, systemic discrimination, and social fragmentation are significant barriers. Additionally, economic pressures and political instability can undermine efforts to create socially sustainable communities.

Global issues such as climate change, migration, and technological advancements also pose unique challenges. Climate change disproportionately affects marginalized communities, exacerbating existing social inequalities. Migration, both voluntary and forced, requires adaptive strategies to ensure social cohesion in increasingly diverse societies. Technological advancements, while offering numerous benefits, can also lead to job displacement and social isolation if not managed inclusively.

Examples of Social Sustainability in Action

1. Bogotá, Colombia: Bogotá has implemented numerous initiatives aimed at enhancing social sustainability. The city’s extensive public transportation system, including the TransMilenio bus rapid transit, has improved mobility for low-income residents. Additionally, Bogotá’s focus on creating public spaces, such as parks and libraries, has fostered social inclusion and community engagement.
2. Freiburg, Germany: Freiburg is renowned for its sustainable urban planning and social policies. The city’s emphasis on affordable housing, coupled with extensive public participation in planning processes, has contributed to a high quality of life. Freiburg’s commitment to social equity and environmental sustainability serves as a model for other cities.
3. Melbourne, Australia: Melbourne has implemented comprehensive social inclusion policies. The city has invested in community development programs, affordable housing projects, and initiatives that support cultural diversity.

The Bottom Line

Social sustainability is a fundamental pillar of a sustainable future. Society can create inclusive and thriving communities by prioritizing social equity, quality of life, diversity, community resilience, and social capital. Embracing social sustainability not only enhances the well-being of current generations but also ensures a resilient and equitable future for all.