Agendas for achieving sustainability, including the incorporation of engineering:

1. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-94-017-8959-2_2

2. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.imic.2015.04.001

3. https://doi.org/10.1108/DPM-02-2017-0043

Anil Kumar Yadava

Engineering plays a crucial role in developing sustainable solutions, but at the same time, it faces numerous limitations that hinder its ability to fully achieve sustainability. While engineers can develop new technologies and systems that contribute to reducing the negative environmental impact, such as renewable energy sources, efficient resource use, and environmentally friendly materials, the implementation of these solutions is often complex and challenging for several reasons. Firstly, the technologies currently available, although advanced, can be technically and economically limited in their application on a larger scale. For instance, upgrading infrastructure for already existing buildings and industries or transforming transportation systems in a way that is completely sustainable often requires significant investments and periods that are not always acceptable to companies or governments.

Another important aspect is the economic limitations that accompany the transition to sustainable technologies. Investments in new innovations and infrastructure can be very costly, and the payback period for such investments can be long, presenting a serious challenge in economically unstable times. Even when long-term financial savings are considered, switching to environmentally sustainable methods often involves substantial upfront costs that are not accessible to all sectors or developing regions. In addition to economic factors, there are also infrastructure and regulatory challenges that complicate the implementation of engineering solutions. For example, old buildings and factory installations are often not prepared for the application of new technologies or systems necessary to achieve higher levels of sustainability, such as energy-efficient systems or integrated renewable energy sources. Modifying existing infrastructure can be complex and costly, creating additional barriers.

Also, sustainability is not just a technological issue, but a social one. Changes in lifestyle and behavior, as well as adapting to new systems and solutions, are often the hardest part of the process. Engineering innovations must be accompanied by comprehensive educational and social efforts to achieve widespread acceptance and application. Finally, it is important to note that sustainability and environmental responsibility are complex and multidisciplinary processes that require collaboration between engineers, economists, legislators, and other experts. Technological solutions alone are not enough to ensure long-term sustainability; integration of all aspects of sustainable development—economic, social, and environmental—is needed to ensure success.

Sustainability means meeting our needs today without compromising future generations. However, engineering faces major constraints like resource depletion, high costs, pollution, and technological limitations. The solution? Innovating sustainable materials, improving energy efficiency, enhancing recycling, and enforcing eco-friendly policies. Sustainable engineering is not an option—it’s a necessity for a thriving future!

Sustainability refers to meeting present needs without compromising future generations' ability to meet theirs, balancing environmental, economic, and social factors. Engineering plays a crucial role in sustainability but faces limitations. Engineers depend on existing technologies, economic constraints, political decisions, and resource availability, making ideal solutions challenging. There's also uncertainty regarding environmental impacts, as predicting long-term outcomes is complex. Cultural practices, market demands, and short-term thinking further restrict sustainable engineering choices. Thus, engineers often must design within practical constraints rather than optimal ideals. Recognizing these limitations, however, encourages innovation, pushing engineers to develop smarter, adaptable solutions within realistic boundaries toward sustainability.