Process by which microorganisms break down waste organic material in the presence of oxygen. The primary biproducts of this process are carbon dioxide and water. During aerobic digestion, the majority of the energy from the starting material is released in the form of heat.

The commercialisation of agriculture, including the production, processing, and distribution of food and other agricultural products. Agribusiness can have both positive and negative impacts on sustainability, depending on the specific practices employed.

An approach to farming that emphasises the integration of ecological principles into agricultural systems, such as using companion planting and natural pest control methods.

Energy that is not derived from fossil fuels which produces little to no GHGs.

Uses: Waste disposal, methane rich gas production, fertiliser production 

Process by which microorganisms break down waste organic material in a sealed container (in the absence of oxygen). It produces biogas that is used as an alternative to fossil fuels and a nutrient rich digestate which can be used as fertiliser. 

The farming of aquatic animals and plants, such as fish, shrimp, and seaweed. Aquaculture can be a sustainable alternative to wild fisheries, but can also have negative environmental impacts if not managed properly.

Agricultural system that uses the waste produced by aquaculture (farming of fish, shellfish etc in tanks) to feed plants grown hydroponically (cultivation of plants in water), through bacteria cultures that convert ammonia to nitrates, which in turn purify the water.

A private sustainability certification of for-profit companies. Certification is granted and maintained by receiving a minimum score of 80 from an assessment of "social and environmental performance", integrating B Corp commitments to stakeholders into company governing documents, and paying an annual fee based on annual sales.

Substances or materials that don't cause pollution by being naturally decomposed or broken down completely by bacteria or other living microorganisms. 

Examples: PLA based packaging, rotten fruit and vegetables, manure

A fuel alternative for engines made from renewable organic raw materials as opposed to fossil hydrocarbons. Biodiesel is made by processing chemically reacting lipids such as animal fat, soybean oil, or some other vegetable oil with an alcohol. 

Biodiesel can be used in a traditional diesel engine; either in pure form or as an additive to conventional fuel. However, traditional petrodiesel is often still added in small quantities to make it compatible to current engines. 

The presence of a variety of living organisms, including plants and animals, in a given environment. It is crucial to the health of ecosystems as it provides food, resources, and economic benefits.

A holistic, ethical and ecological approach to farming, gardening, food, and nutrition incorporates regenerative farming techniques, livestock management and astrological considerations.

Biofuel is a fuel that is produced quickly from organic matter, rather than by the slow natural processes that form fossil fuel. Biofuel can be produced from crops (often termed 'conventional biofuel') or from agricultural, domestic or industrial biowaste (referred to as 'advanced biofuel'). The term can refer to solid, liquid or gaseous products.

The two most common forms of biofuel are bioethanol and biodiesel.

The term 'biomass' is used in several ways: in ecology it means living organisms, and in bioenergy circles it means matter from recently living (but now dead) organisms that is used to create renewable energy. 

In ecology, a biomass is the mass of living organisms living in a particular ecosystem at one time. In bioenergy, biomass is the organic matter used as an energy source.

Compostable or biodegradable plastics that are produced from renewable sources such as microbiota, vegetable fats and oils or corn starch. Their production typically requires less fossil fuels emits fewer greenhouse gases than the production of fossil-fuel based polymers. 

The Blue Economy is sustainable use of ocean resources for ocean ecosystem health, economic growth and improved coastal community livelihoods. 

The term is regularly used in policy and economics to talk about the exploitation, preservation and regeneration of the marine environment. It is most commonly seen in the context of international development conversations about a sustainable approach to coastal resources.

BPA-free products are plastics that contain no BPA chemicals. Common examples include baby sippy cups, plastic water bottles or reusable food storage containers. 

BPA stands for bisphenol A, an industrial chemical used in the manufacturing of certain plastics and epoxy resins. BPAs have been around since the 1960s and the plastics in which you find them are often used to make containers that hold food or drink. BPAs have been found to cause a number of negative health effects including cardiovascular issues. 

Carbon is a non-metallic chemical element that is widely distributed in nature. Elemental carbon is a relatively minor component in the earth's crust, but carbon compounds – e.g. calcium carbonate in shells, magnesium carbonate in marble or limestone – are some of the most abundant on earth. Carbon is seen in products like coal, petroleum and natural gas as well as all plant and animal tissue.

Carbon is often associated now with carbon dioxide and more broadly with greenhouse gas emissions; the resulting emissions that come from burning fossil fuels and other carbon-heavy materials.

Carbon calculators are tools designed to help businesses, governments or individuals measure the GHG emissions from various products, services or activities. 

Carbon Capture and Storage is a multi-step process that involves capturing carbon dioxide produced by power generation or industrial activity, transporting it, and then storing it deep underground in geological formations. The goal is to reduce carbon emissions of industrial activities by preventing the release of carbon dioxide.

Carbon credits are a tradeable certificate or permit that represents the right to emit a certain amount of carbon dioxide or equivalent greenhouse gas. Carbon credits and carbon markets are part of a national and international push to mitigate the growing emissions of GHG gases into the atmosphere.

The theory is that one company or country that is struggling to reduce their emissions can pay another to produce less; thereby offsetting the emissions produced. There are three basic types of carbon credits; reduced emissions (energy efficiency measure), removed emissions (carbon capture or planting forests), and avoided emissions (not doing an activity in the first place like cutting down a forest).

Reducing an operation’s carbon footprint to less than neutral, resulting in a net effect of removing GHGs from the atmosphere rather than adding it.

GHGs produced by an operation are equal to the amount removed from the atmosphere by the process itself or carbon offsetting. Effectively not adding any net additional emissions to the environment. 

A way of mitigating greenhouse gas emissions by funding projects that reduce or remove emissions elsewhere. Carbon offsets are often used to compensate for emissions that cannot be reduced or avoided.

A certification process for producers of organic food and other organic agricultural products. Requirements vary from country to country. 

Reducing an operation’s carbon footprint to less than neutral, resulting in a net effect of removing GHGs from the atmosphere rather than adding it. 

This is the same thing as Carbon Negative. 

This was a large-scale scheme in the UK that ran from 2007 until 2019. It was a mandatory emissions reduction scheme that applied to large energy-intensive organisations in both the public and private sectors. It was initially estimated that the scheme would reduce carbon emissions by 1.2 million tonnes of carbon per year by 2020. It was credited with increasing demand for energ-efficient goods and services. 

The process of storing carbon in a carbon pool. Carbon sequestration is a naturally occuring process for the long-term storage of carbon in plants, soils, the ocean and geologic formations. The process can be enhanced or achieved with modern technology.

The trading of carbon credits to allow businesses or countries to cut their emissions by paying another part to lower their carbon output. The idea is not new, and was used on sulphur dioxide to help limit acid rain in the US. The effectiveness of carbon trading schemes have been called into question.

Paper trail or documentation outlining the sequence of ownership or transportation of a particular product from supplier to end user. Especially important when tracing the source of ingredients.

Uses: food safety, traceability, transparency, sustainability/ethical sourcing, source of origin

An industrial economy designed to promote resource efficiency by replacing a linear ‘take, make, dispose’ model of production with one that extracts maximum value from resources while in use, and then recovers and reuses these materials at the end of each service life. 

It aims to benefit the environment, businesses and society; eliminate waste and pollution and retain and regenerate the materials being used.

A food system that prioritizes reducing waste, preserving resources, and regenerating natural systems by designing out waste and pollution, keeping products and materials in use, and regenerating natural systems.

Energy derived from sources that can be naturally replenished and also do not emit any pollutants.

A UK government strategy for meeting the nation's legally binding climate goals. Set out in 2017 it includes proposals for decarbonising all sectors of the UK economy in the 2020s.

Particular areas of focus include improving the energy efficiency of UK homes and transitioning to more nuclear and renewable energy sources.

Activities aimed at lowering greenhouse emissions and addressing climate change and its impacts. 

Long-term shifts in average temperatures and weather patterns. While these may be natural, since the Industrial Revolution in the 1800s, human activities have been the main driver of climate change. This is primarily due to the burning of fossil fuels (like coal, oil and gas), which produces heat-trapping gases. Rising temperatures can lead to extreme weather such as droughts, sea level rises and retreating glaciers.

The Climate Change Act commits the UK government by law to reducing greenhouse gas emissions by at least 100% of 1990 levels (net zero) by 2050. 

Climate change agreements are voluntary agreements made between UK industry and the Environment Agency to reduce energy use and carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions. In return, operators receive a discount on the Climate Change Levy ( CCL ), a tax added to electricity and fuel bills.

An environmental tax charged on the energy that businesses use. It's designed to encourage businesses to be more energy efficient in how they operate, as well as helping to reduce their overall emissions.

A system that aims to minimise waste and maximise the use of resources by recycling and reusing materials. In a closed-loop system, waste is treated as a valuable resource, and products are designed with the end of their lifecycle in mind.

A manufacturing process that seeks to reduce waste by using recycled materials and minimising the use of raw materials. This type of production aims to create a circular economy where resources are kept in use for as long as possible.

Materials from a product are recycled to make the same, or a similar, product without significant degradation or waste.

A European Union policy that aims to provide a stable and sustainable food supply by supporting farmers and ensuring fair competition in the agricultural market.

A European Union policy that aims to promote sustainable fishing practices and ensure the conservation of fish stocks in European waters.

A system in which consumers purchase a share of a local farm's harvest in advance, and receive regular deliveries of fresh produce throughout the growing season. CSA programs can help support local farmers and promote sustainable agriculture.

A material that can be broken down into natural substances such as water, carbon dioxide, and organic matter when exposed to the right conditions of heat, moisture, and oxygen. Compostable materials are often used as an alternative to traditional plastics that are not biodegradable.

Natural decomposition process for organic matter, such as plant and food waste. Allows for the safe disposal of organic matter and produced a valuable fertiliser that can enrich soil and plants. 

Uses: Safe disposal of PLA based packaging and processing food waste

The Conference of the Parties is the decision-making body of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC). The conference brings together representatives from countries that have ratified the convention to assess progress in dealing with climate change and to negotiate and agree on new commitments and targets.

 Corporate social responsibility is a business approach that takes into account the social, environmental, and economic impacts of a company's operations and decisions. It involves integrating sustainability into a company's strategy and operations, and taking responsibility for the impacts of its actions on society and the environment.

A design philosophy that aims to create products and systems that are regenerative and sustainable. It involves designing products and materials so that they can be used and reused indefinitely, with no waste or pollution.

Cradle to grave refers to the lifecycle of a product, from its creation (or cradle) to its disposal (or grave). This approach takes into account the environmental and social impacts of a product throughout its entire lifecycle.

Cumulative Energy Requirements (CER) analysis is a method used to assess the total amount of energy required to produce a product or service. CER takes into account all of the energy inputs, from the extraction of raw materials to the production and disposal of the final product.

Decarbonising refers to the process of reducing or eliminating carbon dioxide emissions from a particular sector or economy. This is typically done by shifting to cleaner sources of energy and reducing reliance on fossil fuels.

DEFRA stands for the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, which is a UK government department responsible for environmental protection, food production and standards, and rural affairs.

Desertification is the process by which fertile land becomes desert, typically as a result of overgrazing, deforestation, or climate change.

Diet quality refers to the nutritional value and balance of the foods that a person consumes. A high-quality diet is one that provides all of the necessary nutrients in appropriate amounts to maintain good health.

Direct trade refers to a business model in which commodities are purchased directly from farmers or producers, rather than going through intermediaries. The direct trade model aims to provide farmers with better prices and more control over their product, while also promoting transparency and sustainability in the supply chain.

Eating in season refers to the practice of consuming fruits and vegetables that are currently in season in the local area. This reduces the carbon footprint of food production and transportation, and also supports local farmers and agriculture.

A person or company that is aware of the environmental impacts of their actions and strives to minimise their negative impact on the environment.

A design approach that aims to minimise the environmental impact of products by taking into account the entire lifecycle of the product, from raw materials and production to use and disposal.

A method used to evaluate the environmental and economic impacts of a product or service. It involves assessing the resource inputs and environmental impacts of the product, as well as the costs associated with producing and using the product.

Reduced, minimal, or no harm to ecosystems or the environment.

A non-protected and  ambiguous term that is generally used by companies to denote that certain decisions have been made to reduce negative effects on the environment during the sourcing, manufacturing, packaging, or disposal process.

A visual communication tool that indicates products, services or companies that meet specific environmental standards and are deemed ‘environmentally preferable’. 

The impact that human activities have on the environment, expressed in terms of the amount of land and water needed to sustain those activities. The ecological footprint measures the amount of resources that humans consume and the waste that they generate, and it is used to evaluate the sustainability of human activities.

The practice of designing and planting landscapes that produce edible fruits, vegetables, and herbs. Edible landscaping can help promote food security, reduce food miles, and increase access to fresh produce.

 The release of gases and pollutants into the atmosphere, soil, or water from human activities such as industrial production, transportation, and energy generation.

Using less energy to achieve the same level of output or service. This can be achieved through the use of technology, behaviour change, and energy management practices.

An EPC is a contract between a customer and an energy services company (ESCO) to improve energy efficiency and reduce energy costs. The ESCO guarantees the energy savings, and the savings are used to pay for the upgrades over the contract term.

An environmental claim is a statement made by a company or organisation about the environmental performance or benefits of a product or service. This can include claims about energy efficiency, recycled content, carbon footprint, and other environmental attributes.

An EIA is a process used to identify and evaluate the potential environmental impacts of a proposed project or development. The assessment considers the potential impacts on air, water, soil, biodiversity, and human health, among other factors.

An EIS is a detailed report that outlines the potential environmental impacts of a proposed project or development. The statement is required under certain environmental regulations and includes a description of the proposed project, potential impacts, and alternatives.

An environmental management system (EMS) is a framework used by organisations to manage their environmental impacts and improve their environmental performance. An EMS typically includes policies, procedures, and processes for identifying and managing environmental risks and opportunities.

 Environmental performance indicators (EPIs) are metrics used to measure an organisation's environmental performance. EPIs can include measures of energy use, greenhouse gas emissions, waste generation, water use, and other environmental impacts.

Products or services that have a lesser or reduced impact on the environment compared to similar products or services. This can include products made from renewable or recycled materials, products with lower energy or water use, or products that are designed for reuse or recycling.

An EPD is a standardised document that provides transparent and verified information about the environmental impacts of a product throughout its life cycle. The EPD includes information about raw materials, energy use, emissions, and other environmental factors.

An ERA is a process used to identify and evaluate the potential environmental risks associated with a particular activity or project. The assessment considers the likelihood and potential consequences of environmental harm, and helps to inform risk management decisions.

An umbrella term for the set of standards used to measure the impact of a business on the environment, society, and how transparent and accountable it is. 

Uses: An ESG strategy can show how a company is reducing risks, such as adapting manufacturing methods to meet future environmental legislation, demonstrating its financial value to investors.  

Principles and standards of conduct that govern an individual or organisation's behaviour towards society, the environment, and other stakeholders. Ethical behaviour entails acting with integrity, honesty, and fairness, and making responsible choices that promote sustainability.

Also known as socially responsible investing (SRI), refers to the practice of investing in companies or funds that demonstrate socially responsible, ethical, and sustainable practices. Ethical investors consider factors such as environmental impact, labour practices, and corporate governance when making investment decisions.

The manufacturing of products in a way that minimises harm to people and the environment. Ethical production practices typically involve the use of sustainable materials, responsible labour practices, and reducing waste and pollution.

The practice of procuring raw materials, goods or services in a way that aligns with ethical and sustainable principles. Ethical sourcing considers factors such as fair labour practices, environmental impact, and social responsibility.

The concept that manufacturers have a responsibility for the entire lifecycle of their products, including disposal or recycling. EPR requires manufacturers to take responsibility for the environmental impact of their products, encouraging them to design products with sustainability in mind.

An social movement and alternative approach to trade that aims to ensure that farmers and workers get a fair share of the benefits of the trade, as well as delivering improved social and environmental standards.

Also refers to a system of certification that aims to ensure a set of standards are met in the production and supply of a product or ingredient.

A certification scheme that ensures that wild plant ingredients are sustainably harvested and traded, and that the communities that depend on them are treated fairly. The scheme focuses on protecting biodiversity, promoting sustainable practices, and supporting fair trade principles.

The various processes in the food chain from agricultural production to consumption. 

Also refers to a social movement which promotes the sustainable eating and the use of local food, traceable back to the farms it comes from at food establishments or even homes.

A centralised facility that coordinates the aggregation, distribution, and marketing of locally sourced food products. Food hubs can help small farmers access larger markets, reduce food waste, and promote sustainable agriculture.

The idea that everyone has the right to access healthy, culturally appropriate food that is produced in an environmentally sustainable way. Food justice emphasises the importance of addressing systemic issues such as poverty, racism, and inequality in the food system.

The distance food travels on its journey from producer to end user, as a unit of measurement of the fuel used to transport it. Typically used in the context of eating locally sourced produce.

A high number of food miles doesn’t always mean that food is bad for the environment e.g. bananas are shipped thousands of miles to the UK but often have a much lower carbon footprint than produce that has been air freighted in from Europe.

The origin of a particular food, where it was grown, raised, caught or manufactured and also if any specific processes or methods were used in the manufacturing.

This information is usually important to prove that certain food products are local, seasonal or environmentally responsible.

The measures taken to ensure that food products are free from harmful contaminants or pathogens that could cause illness or disease. Food safety is essential for protecting public health and promoting sustainable food production.

The ability of people to access sufficient, safe, and nutritious food that meets their dietary needs and preferences.

The right of communities to control their own food systems, including the right to determine what is produced and how it is produced.

Any food, inedible parts of food, removed from the food supply chain to be recovered or disposed.

A farming husbandry method where instead of being confined in an enclosure 24 hours each day, animals can roam and graze freely outdoors for at least part of the day.

Plant-based foods that can increase dietary nutritional value and reduce environmental impacts of the food supply, promoting sustainable global food systems.

Organisms whose genetic material has been altered through genetic engineering techniques. The use of GMOs in food production is a controversial topic due to concerns over their safety and potential impact on the environment.

Renewable energy generated by harnessing the heat from the earth's core. 

The gradual increase in the average temperature of the world due to human activities, such as burning fossil fuels, that release greenhouse gases into the atmosphere.

Livestock that has been fed on a diet consisting mainly of grass or other forage, rather than grains or other feed. Grass-fed livestock are considered to be more sustainable, as they require less intensive farming practices and have a lower environmental impact.

Practices and principles that promote environmental sustainability.

The design of products, buildings, and other structures with sustainability and environmental impact in mind. Green design aims to reduce waste and pollution, conserve natural resources, and promote sustainable practices.

An economy that aims to reduce environmental impact and promote sustainability through the use of renewable resources, conservation practices, and the adoption of environmentally-friendly technologies and practices. In a green economy, economic growth is achieved while minimising negative impacts on the environment.

An atmospheric gas, such as methane, water vapour, nitrous oxide, and carbon dioxide that absorbs, traps and emits heat causing a warming (greenhouse) effect. An excess of these gases in the atmosphere could cause a rise in atmospheric temperature.

Human activities, such as the burning of fossil fuels and clearing of forests, have led to a rise in greenhouse gas emissions, causing global warming.

Making a company appear more environmentally friendly it is by making a misleading or false claim about the environmental benefits of a product, service, technology or process.

Soil that is rich in nutrients and organic matter, and is able to support plant growth and ecosystem functions. Healthy soil is important for sustainable agriculture and food production, as well as for maintaining biodiversity and mitigating climate change.

A type of horticulture that involves plants without soil, by using water-based mineral nutrient solutions in aqueous solvents.

The effect that a particular activity, policy, or practice has on the environment, society, or economy. The impact can be positive or negative, and can be assessed through various methods such as environmental impact assessments or social impact assessments.

An agricultural method that uses a lot of machinery, labour, chemicals, etc. in order to grow as many crops or keep as many animals as possible on the land available. It can be damaging to the environment. 

The practice of growing two or more crops in the same field at the same time. Intercropping is a sustainable agriculture technique that can increase crop yields, improve soil health, and reduce pest and disease pressure.

A waste management approach where no waste is sent to landfill sites. Instead, waste is either recycled or recovered for energy production. Landfill-free policies aim to reduce the environmental impact of waste disposal and promote sustainable waste management practices.

The stages of a product or process from its raw material extraction, through its production and use, to its disposal or recycling.

A a tool used to assess the environmental impact of products and processes across their entire life cycle.

 A method of evaluating the environmental impact of a product or service throughout its entire life cycle, from raw material extraction to disposal.

The total cost of a product or process over its entire life cycle, including the costs of raw materials, production, use, and disposal. 

A tool used to assess the economic impact of products and processes across their entire life cycle

The practice of considering the entire life cycle of a product or process when making decisions about its design, production, use, and disposal. Life cycle thinking aims to promote sustainability by identifying opportunities to reduce environmental and economic impacts across the entire life cycle.

A food system in which foods are produced, processed and retailed within a defined geographical area (within a 20 to 100 km radius approx.).

A person who prefers to eat locally grown or produced food, typically within a 100-mile radius of their home. Eating locally can help reduce food miles and support local farmers.

Practices or technologies that produce low levels of greenhouse gas emissions.

Low-carbon solutions include renewable energy, energy efficiency, and sustainable transportation.

A dietary pattern that is low in greenhouse gas emissions. A low carbon diet typically involves eating more plant-based foods and fewer animal-based foods, as animal agriculture is a significant source of greenhouse gas emissions.

Small plastic particles that are less than 5mm in size. Microplastics can enter the environment through a variety of sources, including microbeads in personal care products, plastic pollution in the ocean, and the breakdown of larger plastic items. Microplastics are a growing concern due to their potential impacts on human health and the environment.

The practice of growing a single crop year after year on the same land. This may increase yield in the short term but it is harmful in the long term as it leads to the depletion of minerals from soil and could cause erosion.

An approach that considers multiple criteria or attributes in decision making or evaluation. For example, a product may be evaluated based on its environmental impact, social responsibility, and economic viability.

Solutions that use nature or natural processes to address environmental problems or achieve sustainability goals. 

Example Planting trees to absorb carbon dioxide from the atmosphere, or using natural wetlands to treat wastewater.

A target to reach net-zero carbon emissions by a selected date, differs from zero carbon, which requires no carbon to be emitted as the key criteria.

It requires definitive plans from organisations and governments to reduce carbon and GHG emissions. Currently most governments and organisations are working towards Net Zero in 2030/2050.

Achieved through a reduction in carbon emissions and offsetting of GHG emissions, so the emissions and offsets together tally up to ‘zero’. Offsetting can be through carbon credits or sequestration through rewilding or carbon capture and storage needs. 

Using every part of an animal in food preparation so that nothing is wasted. 

Materials from old products are used to make new products in way that changes the inherent properties of the materials.

A system of farming and food production that does not use pesticides, hormones, synthetic fertilizers and other toxic materials.

A type of plastic that is designed to degrade into smaller fragments through oxidation when exposed to certain environmental conditions such as sunlight, heat or moisture.

A design system for creating sustainable and self-sufficient ecosystems. Permaculture principles can be applied to food production, such as designing gardens to maximize productivity and minimize waste.

PLA (Polylactic acid) packaging is made renewable, organic sources such as corn starch or sugar cane. This packaging is biodegradable under certain industrial conditions, however due to lack of the lack of infrastructure, it is difficult to compost PLA industrially or to recycle it. 

Consisting largely or entirely of vegetables, grains, pulses, or other foods derived from plants, rather than animals.

Measures taken to prevent or reduce the amount of pollution generated in the first place. 

Example Using cleaner production processes, reducing waste, or using more sustainable materials.

A type of plastic that is widely used in packaging, construction, and other applications. It is a thermoplastic polymer made from ethylene monomer units.

Businesses take responsibility for the environmental impact of the products they make, sell or buy at all stages of the product’s lifecycle. 

Internationally recognised organisation that works with farmers, businesses and communities to preserve forests, conserve wildlife and cultivate sustainable livelihoods. Its certification marks responsibly grown produce.

The practice of collecting and storing rainwater for later use, typically for irrigation or other non-potable purposes. It can help to reduce water use and stress on local water resources.

Materials or products that have been recovered or salvaged from waste or discarded items, and then processed or refurbished for reuse.

A waste product or material that can be collected, processed and manufactured into a new product.

Packaging materials that have been made from recycled materials, such as paper, plastic, or glass. It can help to reduce the amount of waste generated and conserve resources.

The process of converting  a waste material into a reusable material or returning a material to a previous state in a cyclic process.

A British farm and food assurance certification that ensures traceability, safety and care in farming standards. 

Improving ecological biodiversity and health by enabling, supporting and enhancing natural processes.

A conservation and rehabilitation approach to food and farming systems that uses  topsoil regeneration, increasing biodiversity, water conservation and other sustainable agricultural practices to enhance the health and vitality of farm soil.

An approach to agriculture that is subject to government regulations, such as regulations on pesticide use, water quality, and labor practices. Regulated agriculture can help promote sustainability and protect the environment, but can also be subject to criticism for being overly bureaucratic.

The process of rebuilding an end-of-life product to its original specifications using a mixture of reused, repaired and new parts. It promotes waste reduction, decreasing the demand on the world’s natural resources, saves CO2 emissions in manufacturing and cuts costs for businesses.

Energy derived from natural resources sources that are constantly replenished like wind, water and sunlight.

Examples: wind, solar, wave, biomass and hydro.

The ability of a system, community, or organisation to adapt and recover from stressors or disruptions, such as natural disasters, economic shocks, or social upheavals.

Businesses that prioritise social and environmental responsibility, in addition to profitability. This can include measures such as reducing their carbon footprint, promoting diversity and inclusion, or investing in their local communities.

Returning an ecosystem to a previous, more biodiverse condition.

Packaging materials that can be reused or recycled instead of being disposed of after one use. Reusable packaging is designed to be used multiple times, while recyclable packaging can be broken down and turned into new products.

The process of managing the flow of products from their final destination back to their point of origin for the purpose of recapturing value or proper disposal. 

Includes activities such as product returns, recalls, and end-of-life disposal.

Categorisation of GHG emissions into three groups, or scopes, by the Greenhouse Gas (GHG) Protocol.  

Scope 1: direct emissions originating from a company’s operations and sources they control 

Scope 2: indirect emissions originating from the purchase of electricity, steam, heat, or cooling

Scope 3: indirect emissions originating from the value chain – from sourcing and suppliers all the way to how consumers use the products

A system in which individuals can rent or borrow goods or services from others, rather than buying and owning them outright. This allows for more efficient use of resources and reduces waste.

Products or materials that are intended to be used once and then disposed of, such as plastic straws or paper napkins.

Plastics that are intended to be used once and then disposed of, such as plastic bags, straws, and utensils. These are a major contributor to plastic pollution and have negative impacts on the environment.

A movement that advocates for the preservation of traditional and regional food cultures, and promotes the consumption of local, seasonal, and sustainably produced food.

Packaging that is designed to be more efficient, reduce waste, or provide additional functionality, such as temperature monitoring or tamper-evident features.

A business whose primary purpose is to tackling social problems, improving communities or the environment rather than creating profit for owners or shareholders. 

The idea that individuals and organisations have a duty to act in the best interests of society as a whole.

Social responsibility may involve addressing social and environmental challenges, supporting local communities, and promoting ethical business practices.

A British charity whose activities  include campaigning – against intensive farming, for local purchasing and public education on nutrition – and the certification of organic foods.

A renewable energy source that uses solar panels to capture the energy from the sun and convert it into electricity.

The place where goods were mined, grown or produced, not where the goods where shipped from. 

A network between a company and its suppliers to produce and distribute a specific product to the buyer.

Supply chain sustainability encourages good governance practices throughout the lifecycles of products and services.

The process of managing the flow of goods and services from the initial production to the final delivery to the end consumer. This includes activities such as procurement, logistics, and inventory management.

Food that is fit for consumption but is not used or sold and could potentially go to waste. 

Defined by the UN as: “meeting the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs”. 

It is ensuring that human impact on the environment is sufficiently mitigated in pursuit of the protection of natural resources and of future generations' access to water, material, resources, and social and economic requirements.

A report that details an organisation's environmental, social, and economic performance, as well as its sustainability goals and initiatives.

Farming practices that aim to balance the needs of the environment, society, and the economy while producing food. 

Sustainable agriculture practices can include using natural fertilisers, crop rotation, and minimising the use of pesticides and herbicides.

A business that is economically viable, socially responsible and environmentally conscious.

Designing physical products, services and the built environment in keeping with  the principles of ecological sustainability.

A framework of 17 global goals designed to help the world achieve sustainable development – which includes ending poverty, protecting the planet and ensuring that all people enjoy peace and prosperity by 2030. They were adopted by the UN in 2015.

A diet that is environmentally sustainable, socially responsible, and promotes health and well-being. This may include consuming plant-based foods, locally sourced foods, and reducing food waste.

Measuring the environmental impact of a particular diet or food system in terms of its sustainability. Sustainable diet measurements take into account factors such as the carbon footprint of food production, the amount of water and land used, and the impact on biodiversity.

The process of considering environmental, social and ethical factors along with price and quality when selecting ingredients.

A food system that provides food security and nutrition for people and creates sustainable environmental, economic and social systems that surround food.

Manufacturing products through economically-sound processes that minimize negative environmental impacts while conserving energy and natural resources.

The process of considering environmental, social and ethical factors along with price and quality when selecting suppliers. It requires a higher degree of engagement between all parties in a supply chain.

A UK based not-for-profit membership organisation which aids food-service businesses to work towards sustainability in their sector and guides customers towards more sustainable choices.

Seafood that is harvested or farmed in a way that maintains healthy fish populations, minimises harm to other marine life and habitats, and supports the long-term viability of fisheries.

An holistic problem-solving approach that views ‘problems’ as part of a wider, dynamic system. It is the process of understanding the influence that things have on each other as part of a whole. 

A concept that encourages individuals to consume food that is sourced within a 100-mile radius of their location. The aim of the 100 Mile Diet is to reduce the carbon footprint associated with food transportation and support local food systems.

The ability to track information about a product from its origin through its entire supply chain.

It ensures the reliability and visibility of sustainability claims associated with a product and helps prove its provenance. 

The process of a company being open, honest, and straightforward about its operations. The company reports on its ethics and performance results through accessible publication of its performance, internal processes, sourcing, pricing, and business values. 

A framework for measuring sustainability that takes into account economic, social, and environmental performance. The triple bottom line emphasises the importance of balancing financial profitability with social and environmental responsibility.

The process of transforming waste materials into new products of higher value. 

Example In the food industry, upcycling can involve using food waste to create new products, such as turning fruit pulp into fruit leather.

The practice of cultivating, processing, and distributing food in or around urban and suburban areas. Produce from urban farms is typically for self-consumption or for distribution or sale locally.

A business model that describes the full range of activities needed to create a product or service. Building on the supply chain, it also considers the manner in which value is added along the chain, both to the product / service and the actors involved.

From a sustainability perspective, it has more appeal as it explicitly references internal and external stakeholders in the value-creation process.

The practice of abstaining from the use of animal, seafood and insect based products. 

The complete flow of a specific type of waste from industrial or domestic areas through to recovery, recycling or disposal. The intervention of recycling may act to lessen the content of a waste stream as it moves down the line.

A process that involves using waste materials as a fuel source to generate energy. 

Example Waste-to-energy technologies include incineration, gasification, and anaerobic digestion.

Turning waste materials into a profitable resource.

Example Companies may recycle waste materials to create new products or use waste heat from industrial processes to generate electricity.

The amount of water used in the production and processing of products.

An accounting method that takes into account the entire lifecycle of a product or service, including its production, use, and disposal. Whole life costing aims to identify the true cost of a product or service, including the environmental and social impacts.

The use of wind turbines to generate electricity. Wind energy is a renewable energy source that does not produce greenhouse gas emissions.

The act of putting non-recyclable materials in a recycling bin with the hope that they will be recycled. Wish-cycling can do more harm than good as it can contaminate the recycling stream and lead to more waste being sent to landfill.

A product or service that does not release any GHGs into the atmosphere during production and/or operation. 

A concept that encourages a  system-wide design approach that seeks to maximize recycling, minimize waste, reduce consumption, and ensure that products are designed to be reused, repaired, or recycled back into the environment or marketplace.