Social inequality: Unsustainable practices can exacerbate social inequalities, particularly among vulnerable communities that may be more heavily impacted by environmental and economic risks associated with sustainability. For example, low-income communities may face greater exposure to pollution or environmental degradation including climate change impacts, while indigenous peoples may experience cultural disruption and loss of traditional knowledge.

Loss of cultural heritage: Unsustainable development practices can lead to the destruction of cultural heritage sites and loss of cultural diversity. This can negatively impact the social and cultural fabric of communities and diminish their sense of place and identity.

Displacement and migration: Unsustainable practices, such as deforestation and large-scale land use changes such mass mining of toxic chemicals for electric vehicules, can displace local communities, leading to mass migration and social disruption. 

Public health risks: Unsustainable practices can lead to negative public health impacts, such as air pollution and exposure to toxic chemicals. These risks can disproportionately impact vulnerable communities, such as children, pregnant women, and low-income populations.

Labor practices: Unsustainable practices can be associated with poor labor conditions and social injustice, such as forced labor, child labor, and inadequate safety standards. These practices can undermine human rights and social well-being.

Community engagement: Unsustainable practices can create a lack of trust and engagement among stakeholders, such as local communities and civil society groups, leading to social conflict and disruption.

Access to basic needs: Unsustainable practices can lead to reduced access to basic needs, such as clean water, food, and energy. This can negatively impact social and economic development, as well as human health and well-being.