Environmental sustainability can be defined as meeting the needs of the present generation without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs. It can also include maintaining the factors and practices that contribute to the quality of the environment. Sustainability is threatened by human activities such as pollution and degradation or over-exploitation of natural resources.
The EPA seeks to further the objectives of sustainability and sustainable development, in line with the objectives of Tasmania's Resource Management and Planning System (RMPS).
The mechanisms by which the EPA seeks to further these objectives include considering the implications of development proposals and applying conditions to prevent environmental harm, promoting resource and energy efficiency, educating for sustainability and through offering incentives, such as awards for sustainable practice.