What is the ultimate goal of environmental assessment and sustainable design?

The ultimate goal of environmental assessment and sustainable design is to understand and manage trade-offs. This approach recognizes that design and development decisions often involve evaluating multiple factors, including environmental impact, resource allocation, social implications, and economic considerations. By assessing these trade-offs, designers and decision-makers can make informed choices that balance ecological sustainability with economic viability and social responsibility.

This process helps to ensure that the long-term effects on the environment are thoroughly considered and mitigated while still meeting the needs of society and businesses. It also allows for a more holistic view of projects, enabling stakeholders to identify potential conflicts and address them proactively.

Maximizing company profits, reducing costs, and innovating new materials might be important objectives for a company, but they don't encompass the broader vision of sustainability, which seeks to integrate environmental health, resource efficiency, and societal betterment in a comprehensive manner.