What is a working definition of sustainable design?

Sustainable design is best defined as the intelligent application of sustainability principles to engineering and design. This encompasses a holistic approach that seeks to minimize negative impacts on the environment while promoting social and economic equity.

Sustainable design integrates various aspects such as reducing energy consumption, using renewable resources, encouraging recycling and waste reduction, and ensuring that products and processes are environmentally friendly throughout their life cycles. By prioritizing sustainability principles, designers and engineers can create solutions that not only meet current needs but also consider the long-term implications of their work on future generations.

In contrast, the other options fail to capture the essence of sustainable design. The use of modern technology alone does not necessarily contribute to sustainability if it isn't employed thoughtfully with environmental concerns in mind. Focusing solely on aesthetic appeal overlooks the crucial environmental and social responsibilities that accompany design processes. Lastly, promoting cost efficiency without considering sustainable outcomes can lead to short-sighted decisions that might harm the environment.