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MENTAL MODEL · M3297

Strong Sustainability

Strong Sustainability
BusinessHigh supportEconomics
Included
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Version 1.0.0 · Updated 2026-07-31

CORE DEFINITION

Natural capital is irreplaceable; the integrity of critical natural capital stocks must be maintained and cannot be substituted by manufactured capital. It emphasizes the complexity and irreversibility of natural systems, requiring that each type of capital stock be maintained separately.

SCAFFOLDING EFFECT

psychology

Reduce cognitive load

Ecological protection bottom line. It provides a theoretical basis for setting insurmountable limits for environmental protection. In policy-making, it supports the establishment of ecological red lines, nature reserves, and other institutions to ensure the integrity and functional continuity of critical ecosystems.

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Anchor fast decisions

Strong sustainability argues that natural capital (especially critical ecological functions) and manufactured capital are not fully substitutable; the stock of critical natural capital must be maintained without decline, otherwise intergenerational equity is compromised. It is more conservative than weak sustainability.

MINIMUM ACTION

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Source support: Explicit

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    en.wikipedia.orghttps://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Weak_and_strong_sustainabilityZH · Explicit
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