Defined under the RMA as managing the use, development, and protection of natural and physical resources in a way, or at a rate, which enables people and communities to provide for their social, economic, and cultural well being and for their health and safety while (a) sustaining the potential of natural and physical resources (excluding minerals) to meet the reasonably foreseeable needs of future generations; (b) safeguarding the life-supporting capacity of air, water, soil, and ecosystems; and (c) avoiding, remedying, or mitigating any adverse effects of activities on the environment.

Practical process required for sustainable development to be achieved. This process has been effectively applied in New Zealand, where the RMA takes a strong sustainable management approach that emphasizes “avoiding, remedying, or mitigating any adverse effects of activities on the environment.

To manage or maintain an area that will meet the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs.

The use of land in a way that can continue indefinitely.