There are many philosophies behind sustainability but the most prevalent stem from the fact that humans are dependent on the planet for survival. If we use up limited resources like fresh water and oil or destroy ecosystems that provide resources we can use like forests and farmland humans are out of luck. Without soil we can’t eat. So according to this reasoning we should use farming practices that conserve and create naturally nutrient rich soil.  This thinking goes along with the proverb: “Treat the Earth well. It was not given to you by your parents. It was loaned to you by your children.”

For others nature has value separate from people. The philosophy known as deep ecology focuses on the intrinsic value of all parts of the planet. Animals have the right to live as they are meant to live and the natural systems of earth should be allowed to function as they always have.  For a brief comparison of shallow and deep ecology check out this video:

The trend of religious groups working towards sustainable systems has grown over the last few years.  Putting aside the focus on the “dominion” of people over nature, these new groups follow the belief that it is their duty to treat the planet created by a divine hand in a respectful and protective way. “At the core of Jewish and Christian ethics are the commandments to love God and one’s neighbor. Can we love the Creator without celebrating and caring for the creation? Can we love our neighbor without protecting the environment on which that neighbor’s life and health depend?”  states the Web site of the National Religious Partnership for the Environment.

In a post Why be Sustainable? the blog Sustainable Progress highlighted three simple reasons to strive for sustainability:

1. Help to avert major conflicts over dwindling resources
2. Increase the level of personal happiness and health within communities
3. Give people a sense of hope and an ability to focus on longer term visions for humanity

There are many reasons people try to live more sustainable lives. Yell out your reasons!

Elizabeth Ulion is a graduate student at Northwestern University.

Photo courtesy of woodleywonderworks/Flickr.