Define "environmental sustainability".

Environmental sustainability refers to the responsible use of resources to maintain ecosystem health, which encompasses practices that ensure that the environment can sustain itself over time. This definition emphasizes the balance required to keep ecosystems functioning properly while also fulfilling human needs. It involves not only conserving resources but also restoring and protecting natural habitats, biodiversity, and the overall health of the planet for future generations.

In contrast, other options reflect unsustainable practices. For example, some describe the depletion of natural resources or the neglect of long-term consequences, which ultimately compromise both environmental integrity and resource availability. Others imply a focus on immediate gains rather than sustainable practices. Such approaches do not align with principles of environmental sustainability, as they can lead to the degradation of natural systems that support life. The key to environmental sustainability lies in fostering a harmonious relationship with the environment, ensuring that it remains viable for future use.