Sustainable development

Definition

Sustainable development is a holistic approach to growth that aims to meet the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs. This concept emphasizes a balance between economic growth, environmental protection, and social equity, recognizing that these elements are interconnected. It promotes the idea that development must not only focus on immediate economic gains but also consider long-term impacts on the environment and society.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Sustainable development encompasses three main pillars: economic growth, environmental protection, and social inclusion, often referred to as the 'triple bottom line.'
2. The concept gained global attention with the 1987 Brundtland Report, which defined it as development that meets present needs without compromising future generations.
3. International agreements like the Paris Agreement highlight the importance of sustainable development in addressing climate change by promoting strategies that reduce carbon emissions.
4. Sustainable development requires cooperation among nations, emphasizing the need for policies that promote public goods such as clean air, water, and biodiversity.
5. Foreign aid and development assistance often focus on sustainable development by funding projects that address poverty reduction while ensuring environmental sustainability.

Review Questions

• How does sustainable development integrate economic growth with environmental protection?
  • Sustainable development integrates economic growth with environmental protection by promoting practices that stimulate economic activity while also safeguarding natural resources. This involves investing in green technologies, renewable energy sources, and sustainable agriculture to ensure that economic progress does not lead to environmental degradation. The goal is to create an economy that thrives alongside a healthy ecosystem, allowing for long-term prosperity and ecological balance.
• Evaluate the role of international cooperation in achieving sustainable development goals.
  • International cooperation is crucial for achieving sustainable development goals as many environmental issues, such as climate change and biodiversity loss, transcend national borders. Countries must work together to create frameworks that promote shared resources and collective action. Treaties, agreements, and partnerships help mobilize resources and align efforts to address global challenges effectively, making sustainable development a shared responsibility among nations.
• Assess the impact of foreign aid on promoting sustainable development in developing countries.
  • Foreign aid plays a significant role in promoting sustainable development in developing countries by providing necessary funding for infrastructure projects, education, and health initiatives. However, the effectiveness of this aid depends on its alignment with local needs and sustainability goals. Evaluating the long-term impacts of aid involves analyzing whether these initiatives lead to self-sufficiency or dependency, as well as their contributions to environmental protection and social equity within these regions.

Related terms

Intergenerational Equity: The principle that resources and opportunities should be preserved for future generations, ensuring that they can enjoy a quality of life similar to or better than that of current generations.

Green Economy: An economic framework that aims to improve human well-being and social equity while significantly reducing environmental risks and ecological scarcities, often emphasizing renewable energy and sustainable practices.

Climate Change Mitigation: Efforts aimed at reducing or preventing the emission of greenhouse gases into the atmosphere to combat global warming and its impacts.