Brundtland Commission

Definition

The Brundtland Commission, formally known as the World Commission on Environment and Development (WCED), was established in 1983 by the United Nations to address growing concerns about environmental degradation and sustainable development. It is best known for its 1987 report, 'Our Common Future,' which popularized the concept of sustainable development and highlighted the need for an integrated approach to environmental, social, and economic issues.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The Brundtland Commission was chaired by former Norwegian Prime Minister Gro Harlem Brundtland and played a critical role in bridging the gap between economic growth and environmental sustainability.
2. The commission's 1987 report emphasized that environmental protection and economic development are interconnected and must be addressed together.
3. It brought global attention to issues such as climate change, biodiversity loss, and poverty, positioning them as central to sustainable development discussions.
4. The Brundtland Commission's work led to the establishment of key international environmental agreements and initiatives, influencing policy frameworks worldwide.
5. The term 'sustainable development' became widely recognized and used in policy-making and discussions around the world as a result of the commission's findings.

Review Questions

• How did the Brundtland Commission redefine the relationship between economic growth and environmental sustainability?
  • The Brundtland Commission redefined the relationship by asserting that economic growth must be pursued in a manner that does not compromise the environment. The commission's report emphasized that both development and environmental protection are interconnected, advocating for policies that integrate economic, social, and environmental considerations. This shift in perspective has influenced how governments and organizations approach sustainable development, recognizing it as a crucial framework for addressing global challenges.
• Discuss the impact of the Brundtland Commission's findings on subsequent international environmental policies and agreements.
  • The findings of the Brundtland Commission significantly influenced international environmental policies by promoting the idea that sustainable development should be a global priority. The concepts introduced in its report laid the groundwork for major international events like the Earth Summit in 1992, where Agenda 21 was adopted. These ideas fostered collaboration among nations to address issues like climate change, biodiversity loss, and poverty through coordinated policies and sustainable practices.
• Evaluate how the legacy of the Brundtland Commission continues to shape contemporary discussions on sustainability and global governance.
  • The legacy of the Brundtland Commission remains deeply embedded in contemporary discussions about sustainability and global governance. Its advocacy for sustainable development has evolved into key frameworks such as the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), which aim to address various global challenges holistically. By emphasizing an integrated approach to economic growth, environmental stewardship, and social equity, the commission's work continues to guide international efforts to create a more sustainable future while ensuring that all nations can thrive together.

Related terms

Sustainable Development: A development approach that meets the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs.

Agenda 21: A comprehensive plan of action adopted by the UN at the Earth Summit in 1992, which aims to promote sustainable development globally.

Environmental Governance: The processes and institutions through which decisions about environmental resources and management are made, including policies, laws, and regulations.