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(2014/02/09) Civil, Environmental and Sustainable Engineering
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business or otherwise, to manage these capital assets sustainably.

Sustainable development is the best way to manage these capital assets in the long-term. It is a dynamic pro-

cess through which organisations can begin to achieve a balance between their environmental, social and
economic activities.

4.2.7. The Twelve Features of a sustainable society

By describing what a sustainable society should look like, the ‘12 features’ model helps organisations evalua-

te the sustainability of their projects.

The features fit into the separate five capitals. If we invest appropriately in all capital stocks, and achieve the

flow of benefits, the following statements would be true. They represent the outcome of a successful capital

investment strategy for sustainable development - that is, a sustainable society.

4.2.7.1. of Natural Capital

In their extraction and use, substances taken from the earth do not exceed the environment's capacity to dis-

perse, absorb, recycle or otherwise neutralise their harmful effects (to humans and/or the environment)

In their manufacture and use, artificial substances do not exceed the environment's capacity to disperse, ab-

sorb, recycle or otherwise neutralise their harmful effects (to humans and/or the environment)

The capacity of the environment to provide ecological system integrity, biological diversity and productivity

is protected or enhanced

4.2.7.2. of Human Capital

At all ages, individuals enjoy a high standard of health

Individuals are adept at relationships and social participation, and throughout life set and achieve high perso-

nal standards of their development and learning

There is access to varied and satisfying opportunities for work, personal creativity, and recreation

4.2.7.3. of Social Capital

There are trusted and accessible systems of governance and justice

Communities and society at large share key positive values and a sense of purpose

The structures and institutions of society promote stewardship of natural resources and development of

people

Homes, communities and society at large provide safe, supportive living and working environments of Ma-

nufactured Capital

All infrastructure, technologies and processes make minimum use of natural resources and maximum use of

human innovation and skills

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