Sustainable Development

Definition

Sustainable development is a holistic approach to economic growth that meets the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs. It integrates social, economic, and environmental considerations, promoting practices that foster ecological balance and resource efficiency while ensuring social equity and economic viability.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The concept of sustainable development gained prominence with the 1987 Brundtland Report, which highlighted the importance of balancing economic growth, social equity, and environmental protection.
2. Sustainable development encompasses various strategies, such as renewable energy, sustainable agriculture, and efficient resource management, aimed at minimizing environmental impact.
3. Implementation of sustainable development practices requires collaboration among governments, businesses, and communities to create policies that support long-term sustainability.
4. Indicators of sustainable development include measuring improvements in quality of life, reductions in poverty rates, and increases in biodiversity.
5. Sustainable development is often framed within the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), a set of 17 global goals designed to address pressing social, economic, and environmental challenges.

Review Questions

• How does sustainable development balance economic growth with environmental protection?
  • Sustainable development seeks to balance economic growth with environmental protection by promoting practices that allow for economic progress while minimizing negative impacts on ecosystems. This involves investing in renewable resources, improving energy efficiency, and fostering technologies that reduce waste. By prioritizing both economic interests and ecological health, sustainable development aims to create a resilient economy that supports long-term well-being for people and the planet.
• Discuss the role of intergenerational equity in shaping sustainable development policies.
  • Intergenerational equity plays a crucial role in shaping sustainable development policies by emphasizing the responsibility of current generations to safeguard resources for future ones. Policies informed by this principle aim to ensure that actions taken today do not deplete or damage resources necessary for future populations. This involves considering long-term impacts when making decisions about resource use, environmental protection, and social equity, ultimately guiding societies toward more responsible stewardship of the Earth.
• Evaluate the effectiveness of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) in promoting sustainable development globally.
  • The effectiveness of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) in promoting global sustainable development can be evaluated through their comprehensive framework that addresses interconnected social, economic, and environmental challenges. The SDGs encourage collaboration among nations and stakeholders while providing measurable targets that guide progress. However, their success depends on political will, adequate funding, and public engagement. Challenges remain in achieving all goals equitably across different regions, highlighting the need for continued efforts in implementation and monitoring to ensure all countries benefit from sustainable practices.

Related terms

Ecological Footprint: A measure of the environmental impact of an individual or population, expressed as the amount of land and water area required to produce the resources consumed and absorb the wastes generated.

Intergenerational Equity: The principle that the needs of current generations should be met without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs, emphasizing fairness and responsibility across generations.

Green Economy: An economic model that aims for sustainable development without degrading the environment, focusing on investments that improve human well-being while reducing ecological risks and scarcities.