What does "sustainability" in engineering primarily focus on?

Sustainability in engineering emphasizes the importance of meeting present needs while ensuring that future generations can also meet theirs. This involves considering the long-term impacts of design and engineering decisions on the environment, society, and economy. The concept encourages engineers to develop solutions that are not only effective in the short term but also do not exhaust natural resources or cause environmental degradation over time.

By focusing on sustainable practices, engineers aim to create systems, products, and processes that are energy-efficient, reduce waste, and utilize renewable resources. This perspective promotes an approach to engineering that values the health of ecosystems, the well-being of communities, and the responsible use of resources, ensuring that advancements in technology and infrastructure do not compromise the ability of future generations to thrive.

The other options do not align with the principles of sustainability. Designing for immediate gratification overlooks the long-term consequences, while maximizing profit margins and minimizing costs without environmental considerations can lead to negative outcomes for both society and the planet.