Position Statement: It is the position of NSPE that Professional Engineers should adhere to the principles of sustainable development in order to protect the environment for future generations.

Background: The NSPE Code of Ethics (revised July 2019) states that engineers should at all times strive to serve the public interest.  The Sustainability Position Statement above is expressed in the Code of Ethics Section III.2.d.

“Sustainable Development” is the challenge of meeting future needs for natural resources, industrial products, energy, food, transportation, shelter, and effective waste management while conserving and protecting environmental quality and the natural resource base essential for future development.