<p>The foundation is a critical component of a building/structure, responsible for transmitting and distributing loads to the underlying strata, thereby ensuring stability and safety. Foundations are classified into two primary types: shallow and deep, each suited to specific soil conditions, structural demands, and site constraints. Shallow foundations, typically constructed at depths equal to or less than their width, are easier to construct, cost-effective and environmentally friendly. However, the growing demand for infrastructure often leads to spatial constraints and vertical development, necessitating higher loads, closer spacing of footings and potential interference between foundations. The foundation interference needs to be addressed for effective optimized and sustainable solution of shallow foundations. To promote sustainability in foundation engineering, innovative practices such as ground improvement using geosynthetic materials, granular sub-base (GSB), bamboo, fly ash, and copper slags can enhance soil bearing capacity while reducing concrete consumption. In many cases, these methods can even eliminate the need for deep /pile foundations. For pile foundations, optimized design techniques including piled raft systems and efficient pile termination, can lead to more effective load-bearing solutions. Overall, this paper emphasizes the importance of integrating sustainable practices in foundation engineering, focusing on optimized design, the use of sustainable materials, and innovative construction methods to achieve environmental and economic benefits in the field.</p>