Ecological Integrity

Equilibrium

Ecological integrity: :The condition in which the ecological processes and biological communities of a natural eco-system function in a relatively self-sustaining equilibrium is the foundation of biodiversity, a healthy environment, human health, and our economic well-being.

Social Equity: As we all share local, regional, and global ecosystems with the full web of life, and as we all live down-wind or down-stream of others, environmental considerations must include social equity: meeting the needs of the present without compromising the ability of others, including future generations, to meet their own needs.

Sustainable Economy: As much of the world’s commerce is based on our natural capital - air, water, soil, biota, and other resources - we should seize the opportunity to shift from practices that diminish the environment to a sustainable economy that will respect and maintain it.

Governance and Accountability: With large public and private institutions able to make decisions that can impact our local, regional, and global commons, we need to embrace adaptable, responsive, and transparent decision-making that will ensure a future in which we flourish.