The term sustainability has its origins in forestry. There, it refers to the management of a forest in which only as much wood is removed as will grow back. So, in general, it describes the ability of a system to maintain itself over a long period of time by establishing equilibria between inputs and outputs.
In the business world the system can be a company or a specific industry. Accordingly, inputs are resources such as energy, materials or labor. Thus sustainable business management means looking for ways to use resources more efficiently, reduce waste products, promote employee health, etc., while ensuring business success at all times.