Sustainable Development

Definition

Sustainable development refers to a development approach that aims to meet the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs. This concept emphasizes the interconnectedness of economic growth, social equity, and environmental protection, highlighting that for development to be sustainable, it must consider ecological limits and ensure that resources are used responsibly.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The concept of sustainable development gained global attention after the 1987 Brundtland Report, which defined it and called for a balance between economic growth, environmental protection, and social equity.
2. Sustainable development involves not just conservation but also the responsible management of natural resources to ensure their availability for future generations.
3. Key principles include intergenerational equity, which emphasizes fairness between current and future generations, and intragenerational equity, focusing on fairness among different communities today.
4. Policies promoting sustainable development often incorporate practices like renewable energy use, efficient resource management, and community involvement in decision-making.
5. International agreements, such as the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), aim to address global challenges like poverty, inequality, and climate change through sustainable practices.

Review Questions

• How does sustainable development connect economic growth with environmental protection?
  • Sustainable development connects economic growth with environmental protection by advocating for practices that enhance economic benefits while preserving ecological systems. This means developing technologies and infrastructures that minimize resource depletion and pollution. For example, investing in renewable energy not only fosters economic growth but also reduces carbon emissions, showcasing how both objectives can align when sustainable practices are prioritized.
• Discuss the role of international agreements in promoting sustainable development practices among nations.
  • International agreements play a crucial role in promoting sustainable development by establishing common goals and frameworks for countries to follow. Agreements like the Paris Agreement aim to unify nations in their efforts to combat climate change while fostering commitments to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. These collaborative efforts encourage sharing resources, knowledge, and technologies, helping countries implement sustainable practices effectively and equitably.
• Evaluate the implications of not adhering to sustainable development principles on future generations and ecosystems.
  • Failing to adhere to sustainable development principles poses severe implications for future generations and ecosystems. Unsustainable practices can lead to resource depletion, loss of biodiversity, and environmental degradation, making it difficult for future populations to access essential resources like clean water and fertile soil. Moreover, neglecting social equity can exacerbate inequalities, leaving vulnerable communities without the means to adapt or thrive in changing environments. Ultimately, this neglect undermines the ability of ecosystems to function properly, threatening both human survival and ecological balance.

Related terms

Ecological Footprint: A measure of the environmental impact of an individual or community, expressed in terms of the amount of land and water area required to produce the resources consumed and absorb the waste generated.

Carrying Capacity: The maximum number of individuals or species that an environment can sustainably support without degrading its natural resources.

Triple Bottom Line: A framework that evaluates a company's commitment to social responsibility by measuring its performance in three areas: social, environmental, and economic sustainability.