ATLANTIC CITY, NJ - “Should a sustainable building last forever?” it was asked at the forum “What is Sustainability and How Can It Be Achieved?” One attendee nodded yes, then another. It was noted that we should probably look at perpetuity, except for the resources used.

When we examine sustainability, all natural systems need to considered, one engineer said. You have to look at biodiversity.

Another engineer stated that an open definition is needed. "We often start talking sustainability but the subject usually moves over to energy efficiency, which is a more limited focus."

An English engineer stated that efficiency can be joined to sustainability. "We’re talking about using fossil fuels and how best to use them to achieve sustainability."

Publication date: 01/14/2002