As conversations around sustainability grow more urgent and nuanced, so does the language we use to describe the forces shaping our planet and society. Whether you’re new to the field or brushing up on the latest frameworks and movements, this glossary covers essential terms that reflect the evolving world of corporate sustainability, ethics, and accountability. Download the complete publication here.
AA1000. A family of standards covering the principles of corporate sustainability (AA1000APS), assurance (AA1000AS), and stakeholder engagement (AA1000SES).
Access to medicines (lack of). Describes concern that billions of vulnerable people can’t afford effective medicines — a worry for those without access, creating a reputational risk for the pharmaceutical industry. The Access to Medicine Index measures how well companies address this challenge.
Adaptation. See climate.
Afforestation. Planting trees on land that has never had trees before. A form of carbon capture and storage. But some worry it uses lots of land and water, displaces food production, potentially harms biodiversity, and risks forest fires.
Allyship. Using your influence to create change for others, as an ally. When someone in a position of privilege works in solidarity and partnership with a marginalized group to help them gain basic rights and equal access. Some concern that individuals or organizations may call themselves an ally without working to help.
Alternative energy. Energy sourced from fossil fuel alternatives, therefore releasing little or no greenhouse gas emissions. See also renewable energy.
amfori. Brussels-based organization supporting 2,400+ members with sustainable trade. Offers amfori BCSI, an ethical supply chain program carrying out supplier audits against its code of conduct, sharing the data among members to avoid duplication of effort.
Animal testing. Scientific consensus is that it is sometimes necessary but should be reduced and always done responsibly. Non-animal alternatives are becoming more effective and popular. Animal rights activists want to stop all testing on animals.
Anthropocene. A proposed new geological age resulting from human-induced changes, such as climate change, to the functioning of the Earth’s system. Commonly thought to start in the mid 20th century.
Anthropogenic. Caused by humans.
Anti-racism. Active and deliberate efforts to dismantle the multidimensional systems of racism.
Aquaculture. Breeding, rearing, and harvesting of aquatic species such as fish, crustaceans, and aquatic plants.
Aquaculture Stewardship Council (ASC). Provides a certification program for aquaculture products. See also MSC.
Assurance. Validation that you are telling the truth when reporting corporate performance. Also called verification.
