Sustainability principles and practice for engineers

In 2003, the Institute of Professional Engineers convened to "raise the consciousness of engineers in terms of applying sustainability principles in their daily work and thinking". The Task Force recognized that for engineers, sustainability principles had to bridge the gap between existing practice and the long-term focus on sustainability. They also had to take the integrated, holistic view of environment, society, and economics into account. Hence, several principles were formulated which are as follows: maintaining the viability of the planet; providing for equity within and between generations; and solving problems holistically. Key sustainability factors were also outlined under four categories: managing changes in the environment; equity and safety of engineering activities; holistic problem solving; and resolving existing problems.