What does environmentally mean?
"Environmentally" is an adverb meaning in a way that relates to the natural environment, particularly with respect to protecting it from damage or degradation. It is overwhelmingly used to modify adjectives and participles: something described as environmentally friendly, environmentally sustainable, or environmentally conscious is presented as causing little or no harm to ecosystems. The word carries strong connotations of responsibility and care for the planet, which has made it central to debates about business practices, government policy, and consumer choices. Its use has grown dramatically since the environmental movements of the twentieth century brought ecological concerns into everyday language. While typically found in formal, scientific, commercial, and journalistic contexts, the word is now familiar enough to appear in ordinary conversation. Related forms include "environment" (the surroundings in which people, animals, and plants live), "environmental" (the corresponding adjective), "environmentalism" (the movement advocating protection), and "environmentalist" (a person committed to that cause), making this a productive family of terms at the heart of modern discourse on sustainability.
adverbIn a way that relates to the natural environment, especially regarding protection of it from harm. Used to describe actions, products, or policies considered in terms of their ecological impact.
- In a manner relating to the natural environment or its protection, especially concerning ecological impact.
"The company has committed to sourcing all its materials in an environmentally responsible way."
"The new packaging is fully recyclable and environmentally sound."
"Farmers are increasingly being encouraged to manage their land more environmentally."
The word 'friendly' does so much heavy lifting next to 'environmentally' that 'environmentally friendly' is one of the most scrutinized phrases in modern advertising — regulators have repeatedly cracked down on companies using it without proof.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Etymology of environmentally
Environmentally derives from "environment", which entered English in the early seventeenth century from French "environner" (to surround), itself based on Old French "environ" meaning around or about — a compound of "en-" (in) and "virer" (to turn). The adjective "environmental" formed in the nineteenth century, and the adverb followed as scientific and public concern about humanity's effect on nature intensified through the twentieth century. The root also gives English related terms such as "environs", referring to surrounding districts.
Related word forms
How environmentally is actually used
Almost always appears before a participle or adjective (as in 'environmentally friendly' or 'environmentally damaging') rather than modifying a verb directly, where it can sound slightly awkward. Strong positive connotations when paired with words like 'friendly', 'sound', or 'conscious', and strongly negative with 'damaging' or 'harmful'. Common in formal, scientific, political, and commercial registers.