Sustainable development

Definition

Sustainable development refers to 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. This concept emphasizes the balance between economic growth, environmental stewardship, and social equity, ensuring that development is inclusive and benefits all segments of society. It challenges traditional development paradigms by advocating for practices that are ecologically viable and socially just.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Sustainable development was popularized by the 1987 Brundtland Report, which defined it as development that meets current needs without jeopardizing future generations.
2. The United Nations established the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) in 2015, consisting of 17 goals aimed at addressing global challenges such as poverty, inequality, climate change, and environmental degradation.
3. Sustainable development incorporates local knowledge and community participation to ensure that development efforts are culturally appropriate and context-specific.
4. It promotes renewable resources and energy efficiency to reduce reliance on fossil fuels and minimize environmental impact.
5. The concept highlights the importance of intergenerational equity, ensuring that future generations inherit a planet that is capable of sustaining life.

Review Questions

• How does sustainable development challenge traditional economic growth models?
  • Sustainable development challenges traditional economic growth models by emphasizing the need for a balance between economic growth and ecological integrity. Unlike conventional models that prioritize short-term profit maximization, sustainable development focuses on long-term impacts on the environment and society. This perspective encourages industries to adopt practices that reduce resource depletion and pollution, ultimately leading to a more resilient economy that supports both current and future generations.
• Discuss the role of community engagement in sustainable development initiatives.
  • Community engagement is crucial in sustainable development initiatives because it ensures that local voices are heard and considered in decision-making processes. By involving community members in planning and implementation, initiatives can be tailored to address specific needs and cultural contexts. This participatory approach not only enhances the effectiveness of projects but also fosters a sense of ownership among community members, leading to greater sustainability of outcomes and increased local commitment.
• Evaluate the impact of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) on global development strategies since their adoption in 2015.
  • Since their adoption in 2015, the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) have significantly influenced global development strategies by providing a comprehensive framework for tackling interconnected challenges. The SDGs encourage countries to adopt policies that promote inclusive economic growth while addressing issues like poverty and climate change. As nations strive to meet these goals, they are increasingly integrating sustainability into their national agendas, leading to innovative solutions that leverage partnerships across sectors and improve accountability in resource management.

Related terms

Triple Bottom Line: A framework that evaluates a company's commitment to social, environmental, and economic responsibilities, often summarized as 'People, Planet, Profit.'

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 waste generated.

Green Economy: An economic system that aims for sustainable development without degrading the environment, focusing on resource efficiency and reducing carbon emissions.