Sustainable development

Definition

Sustainable development is the practice of meeting the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs. It emphasizes a balanced approach to economic growth, environmental protection, and social equity, ensuring that resources are used responsibly and preserved for future use. This concept is crucial in addressing global environmental challenges as it aims to harmonize human activities with the Earth's ecological limits.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The concept of sustainable development gained international prominence with the 1987 Brundtland Report, which defined it as development that meets present needs without compromising future generations.
2. Sustainable development involves three core pillars: economic growth, social inclusion, and environmental protection, all of which must be pursued together for true sustainability.
3. The United Nations established the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, which includes 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) aimed at addressing global challenges like poverty, inequality, and climate change.
4. Incorporating sustainable practices can lead to long-term economic benefits by reducing resource waste, increasing efficiency, and fostering innovation in green technologies.
5. Governments, businesses, and individuals all play a role in promoting sustainable development through responsible consumption and investment in sustainable practices.

Review Questions

• How does sustainable development address the balance between economic growth and environmental protection?
  • Sustainable development seeks to create a balance between economic growth and environmental protection by promoting practices that do not deplete natural resources or harm ecosystems. It encourages businesses to adopt eco-friendly technologies and methods that can stimulate economic activity while ensuring that natural resources remain available for future generations. This approach helps to mitigate negative environmental impacts and supports long-term prosperity.
• Evaluate the role of international agreements in advancing sustainable development goals globally.
  • International agreements play a crucial role in advancing sustainable development goals by fostering cooperation among nations to tackle global challenges. Agreements like the Paris Agreement on climate change aim to unify countries in reducing greenhouse gas emissions and committing to sustainable practices. These collaborations set benchmarks for progress, facilitate resource sharing, and encourage countries to adopt policies that support sustainable development on a global scale.
• Assess the impact of urbanization on sustainable development and suggest strategies to mitigate its challenges.
  • Urbanization poses significant challenges to sustainable development as it often leads to increased resource consumption, pollution, and habitat destruction. To mitigate these challenges, strategies such as developing smart cities that prioritize efficient public transport systems, green spaces, and sustainable housing can be implemented. Additionally, promoting mixed-use developments and enhancing local food systems can reduce urban sprawl while improving quality of life and preserving natural environments.

Related terms

Renewable Resources: Natural resources that can be replenished naturally over time, such as solar energy, wind energy, and biomass.

Ecosystem Services: The benefits that humans derive from natural ecosystems, including clean air, water purification, pollination, and climate regulation.

Climate Change: Long-term shifts in temperatures and weather patterns, primarily driven by human activities such as burning fossil fuels, which impact global ecosystems and human societies.