Which term refers to the quality or state of being useful?

The correct answer, utility, refers to the quality or state of being useful. In the context of economics and sustainability, utility is often associated with the satisfaction or benefit derived from a good or service. Understanding utility is essential as it helps in assessing how resources are allocated and used effectively within sustainable practices. For instance, in sustainability discussions, the concept of utility can be applied to evaluate how well resources meet human needs without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs.

While plausibility pertains to the likelihood of something being true or reasonable, it does not directly relate to usefulness. Common-pool addresses resources that are shared and might be subject to overuse, but it doesn't convey the idea of usefulness itself. Institutions refer to established laws, practices, or organizations that govern or facilitate interactions within a society, which again does not focus on the concept of utility as the measure of usefulness. Thus, utility is the most appropriate term in this context.