Glossary

Sustainable development aims to balance economic growth, social equity, and environmental protection. This concept recognizes the interconnectedness of these issues and seeks to address them holistically, ensuring present needs are met without compromising future generations' ability to meet their own needs.

The United Nations' (SDGs) provide a blueprint for achieving a better future for all. These 17 goals cover a wide range of issues, from poverty and hunger to climate action and gender equality, calling for global partnership and action by all countries.

Sustainable development definition

  • Sustainable development is a concept that aims to balance economic growth, social equity, and environmental protection to meet the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs
  • It recognizes the interconnectedness of social, economic, and environmental issues and seeks to address them in an integrated manner
  • Sustainable development requires a long-term perspective and a holistic approach that considers the well-being of both people and the planet

Brundtland Commission definition

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  • The most widely accepted definition of sustainable development comes from the 1987 report "Our Common Future" by the World Commission on Environment and Development, also known as the Brundtland Commission
  • The report defines sustainable development as "development that meets the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs"
  • This definition emphasizes and the importance of balancing economic growth with environmental protection and social justice

Three pillars of sustainability

  • Sustainable development is often conceptualized as having three pillars: economic, social, and environmental sustainability
  • Economic sustainability focuses on promoting stable and inclusive economic growth, creating jobs, and reducing poverty
  • Social sustainability aims to ensure equal access to resources, services, and opportunities for all members of society, regardless of their background or status
  • Environmental sustainability seeks to protect and restore natural ecosystems, conserve biodiversity, and mitigate the impacts of human activities on the environment

Sustainable development goals

  • The sustainable development goals (SDGs) are a set of 17 global goals adopted by the United Nations in 2015 as part of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development
  • The SDGs cover a wide range of issues, including poverty, hunger, health, education, gender equality, clean water and sanitation, affordable and clean energy, decent work and economic growth, industry, innovation and infrastructure, reduced inequalities, sustainable cities and communities, responsible consumption and production, climate action, life below water, life on land, peace, justice and strong institutions, and partnerships for the goals
  • The SDGs are intended to be a blueprint for achieving a better and more sustainable future for all, and they call for action by all countries, both developed and developing, in a global partnership

UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)

  • The 17 SDGs were adopted by the UN General Assembly in September 2015 as part of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development
  • The SDGs are a universal call to action to end poverty, protect the planet, and ensure that all people enjoy peace and prosperity by 2030
  • Each goal has specific targets and indicators to measure progress, and the UN has established a global indicator framework to monitor the implementation of the SDGs

Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) vs SDGs

  • The SDGs build on the success of the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs), which were a set of eight goals adopted by the UN in 2000 to reduce poverty and improve living standards in developing countries by 2015
  • While the MDGs focused primarily on poverty reduction and social development, the SDGs have a broader scope and include environmental sustainability and economic growth as key priorities
  • The SDGs also have a more inclusive and participatory process, involving a wide range of stakeholders, including governments, civil society, the private sector, and academia

Progress and challenges in achieving SDGs

  • Since the adoption of the SDGs in 2015, there has been progress in some areas, such as reducing extreme poverty, improving access to education and healthcare, and increasing the use of renewable energy
  • However, progress has been uneven across regions and goals, and many challenges remain, including rising inequality, climate change, biodiversity loss, and the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic
  • Achieving the SDGs will require significant investments, policy changes, and partnerships at the global, national, and local levels, as well as the active engagement of all stakeholders, including governments, businesses, civil society, and individuals

Sustainable development in international relations

  • Sustainable development has become a key issue in international relations, as countries recognize the need to address global challenges such as climate change, poverty, and inequality
  • International organizations, such as the United Nations, the World Bank, and the International Monetary Fund, play a critical role in promoting sustainable development through their policies, programs, and financing mechanisms
  • Sustainable development is also a key component of global governance, as countries work together to develop and implement international agreements and frameworks to address common challenges

Role of international organizations

  • International organizations, such as the United Nations, the World Bank, and the International Monetary Fund, play a critical role in promoting sustainable development through their policies, programs, and financing mechanisms
  • The United Nations has been at the forefront of efforts to promote sustainable development, through initiatives such as the Millennium Development Goals and the Sustainable Development Goals
  • The World Bank and the International Monetary Fund provide financial and technical assistance to developing countries to support sustainable development projects and programs

Sustainable development in global governance

  • Sustainable development is a key component of global governance, as countries work together to develop and implement international agreements and frameworks to address common challenges
  • Examples of international agreements related to sustainable development include the on climate change, the Convention on Biological Diversity, and the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change
  • Global governance mechanisms, such as the United Nations Environment Programme and the United Nations Development Programme, play a critical role in coordinating and supporting sustainable development efforts at the global level

North-South divide and sustainable development

  • The North-South divide refers to the economic and social disparities between developed countries (the "North") and developing countries (the "South")
  • Sustainable development is often seen as a way to bridge the North-South divide, by promoting economic growth and social development in developing countries while also addressing environmental challenges
  • However, there are also concerns that sustainable development initiatives may perpetuate existing power imbalances and inequalities between the North and the South, if they are not designed and implemented in a participatory and equitable manner

Economic aspects of sustainable development

  • Economic sustainability is a key component of sustainable development, as it aims to promote stable and inclusive economic growth while also protecting the environment and promoting social equity
  • and green growth are two approaches to achieving economic sustainability, by promoting low-carbon, resource-efficient, and socially inclusive economic activities
  • Financing sustainable development is a critical challenge, as it requires significant investments in infrastructure, technology, and human capital

Green economy and green growth

  • The green economy is an approach to economic development that aims to promote low-carbon, resource-efficient, and socially inclusive economic activities
  • Green growth refers to economic growth that is environmentally sustainable and socially inclusive, and that does not deplete natural resources or degrade the environment
  • Examples of green economy and green growth strategies include investing in renewable energy, promoting sustainable agriculture and forestry, and developing eco-friendly transportation systems

Decoupling economic growth from environmental degradation

  • Decoupling economic growth from environmental degradation is a key challenge for achieving sustainable development
  • It involves promoting economic growth while also reducing the environmental impacts of economic activities, such as greenhouse gas emissions, resource depletion, and waste generation
  • Strategies for decoupling economic growth from environmental degradation include improving resource efficiency, promoting circular economy approaches, and investing in clean technologies

Financing sustainable development

  • Financing sustainable development is a critical challenge, as it requires significant investments in infrastructure, technology, and human capital
  • Sources of financing for sustainable development include public financing (such as official development assistance and domestic resource mobilization), private financing (such as foreign direct investment and remittances), and innovative financing mechanisms (such as green bonds and impact investing)
  • Efforts to scale up financing for sustainable development include initiatives such as the Green Climate Fund, the Global Environment Facility, and the Sustainable Development Goals financing framework

Social aspects of sustainable development

  • Social sustainability is a key component of sustainable development, as it aims to promote social equity, inclusion, and well-being for all members of society
  • Poverty eradication and inequality reduction are critical challenges for achieving social sustainability, as they require addressing the root causes of poverty and promoting inclusive economic growth and social development
  • Access to education and healthcare, as well as gender equality and women's empowerment, are also key priorities for achieving social sustainability

Poverty eradication and inequality reduction

  • Poverty eradication and inequality reduction are critical challenges for achieving sustainable development, as they require addressing the root causes of poverty and promoting inclusive economic growth and social development
  • Strategies for poverty eradication and inequality reduction include investing in education and healthcare, promoting social protection programs, and supporting small and medium-sized enterprises and entrepreneurship
  • Efforts to reduce inequality also involve promoting progressive taxation, strengthening labor rights and protections, and addressing discrimination and exclusion based on factors such as gender, race, and ethnicity

Access to education and healthcare

  • Access to education and healthcare are critical for achieving social sustainability, as they are essential for promoting human development, well-being, and social inclusion
  • Strategies for improving access to education include investing in school infrastructure, training teachers, and providing financial support for students from disadvantaged backgrounds
  • Strategies for improving access to healthcare include investing in health infrastructure, training healthcare workers, and promoting universal health coverage and access to essential medicines and vaccines

Gender equality and women's empowerment

  • Gender equality and women's empowerment are critical for achieving social sustainability, as they are essential for promoting inclusive and equitable development
  • Strategies for promoting gender equality and women's empowerment include addressing discrimination and violence against women, promoting women's political participation and leadership, and supporting women's economic empowerment through access to education, training, and financial services
  • Efforts to promote gender equality also involve engaging men and boys as partners in promoting gender equality and challenging harmful gender norms and stereotypes

Environmental aspects of sustainable development

  • Environmental sustainability is a key component of sustainable development, as it aims to protect and restore natural ecosystems, conserve biodiversity, and mitigate the impacts of human activities on the environment
  • Climate change mitigation and adaptation are critical challenges for achieving environmental sustainability, as they require reducing greenhouse gas emissions and building resilience to the impacts of climate change
  • Biodiversity conservation and ecosystem protection, as well as sustainable resource management, are also key priorities for achieving environmental sustainability

Climate change mitigation and adaptation

  • Climate change mitigation and adaptation are critical challenges for achieving sustainable development, as they require reducing greenhouse gas emissions and building resilience to the impacts of climate change
  • Strategies for climate change mitigation include transitioning to renewable energy sources, improving energy efficiency, and promoting sustainable land use and forestry practices
  • Strategies for climate change adaptation include building resilient infrastructure, promoting sustainable agriculture and water management practices, and supporting vulnerable communities to adapt to the impacts of climate change

Biodiversity conservation and ecosystem protection

  • Biodiversity conservation and ecosystem protection are critical for achieving environmental sustainability, as they are essential for maintaining the health and resilience of natural systems and the services they provide to human societies
  • Strategies for biodiversity conservation and ecosystem protection include establishing protected areas, promoting sustainable land use and resource management practices, and supporting the restoration of degraded ecosystems
  • Efforts to conserve biodiversity also involve addressing the drivers of biodiversity loss, such as habitat destruction, overexploitation of natural resources, and invasive species

Sustainable resource management

  • Sustainable resource management is critical for achieving environmental sustainability, as it involves the responsible use and conservation of natural resources such as water, land, forests, and minerals
  • Strategies for sustainable resource management include promoting sustainable agriculture and forestry practices, improving water use efficiency and conservation, and supporting the sustainable extraction and use of mineral resources
  • Efforts to promote sustainable resource management also involve addressing the environmental and social impacts of resource extraction and use, such as pollution, land degradation, and human rights abuses

Sustainable development implementation

  • Implementing sustainable development requires a coordinated and multi-stakeholder approach that involves governments, civil society, the private sector, and local communities
  • National sustainable development strategies, local Agenda 21 initiatives, and public-private partnerships are key mechanisms for implementing sustainable development at the national and local levels
  • Effective implementation of sustainable development also requires strong institutions, capacity building, and financing mechanisms to support the transition to more sustainable practices and technologies

National sustainable development strategies

  • National sustainable development strategies are policy frameworks that outline a country's vision, priorities, and actions for achieving sustainable development
  • These strategies typically involve a participatory process that engages a wide range of stakeholders, including government agencies, civil society organizations, the private sector, and local communities
  • Effective national sustainable development strategies should be aligned with international frameworks such as the Sustainable Development Goals, and should be regularly monitored and reviewed to ensure progress and accountability

Local Agenda 21 and community-based initiatives

  • Local Agenda 21 is a program that was launched at the 1992 Earth Summit in Rio de Janeiro, which calls on local governments to develop and implement sustainable development plans in partnership with their communities
  • Community-based initiatives are grassroots efforts that engage local communities in the design, implementation, and monitoring of sustainable development projects and programs
  • Examples of community-based initiatives include community-based natural resource management, participatory budgeting, and community-led renewable energy projects

Public-private partnerships for sustainable development

  • Public-private partnerships (PPPs) are collaborative arrangements between governments and the private sector to deliver sustainable development projects and services
  • PPPs can take various forms, such as joint ventures, concessions, and service contracts, and can be used to finance and deliver a wide range of sustainable development projects, such as renewable energy, sustainable transportation, and water and sanitation infrastructure
  • Effective PPPs require strong governance frameworks, clear roles and responsibilities, and mechanisms for risk sharing and accountability

Critiques of sustainable development

  • While sustainable development has gained widespread acceptance as a guiding principle for global development, it has also been subject to various critiques and debates
  • Some critics argue that sustainable development is a vague and contested concept that can be used to justify a wide range of policies and practices, some of which may not be truly sustainable or equitable
  • Other critiques focus on the limitations of sustainable development in addressing the root causes of environmental degradation and social inequality, and the need for more transformative approaches to sustainability

Greenwashing and superficial commitments

  • Greenwashing refers to the practice of making misleading or false claims about the environmental benefits of a product, service, or policy
  • Some critics argue that many companies and governments engage in greenwashing by making superficial commitments to sustainable development without making meaningful changes to their practices or policies
  • Examples of greenwashing include companies that make false claims about the recyclability or biodegradability of their products, or governments that set ambitious sustainability targets without implementing effective policies to achieve them

Limits to growth and ecological footprint

  • The limits to growth debate focuses on the idea that there are physical and ecological limits to economic growth and resource consumption, and that exceeding these limits can lead to environmental collapse and social instability
  • The is a measure of the amount of land and resources required to sustain a given population or economy, and is often used to illustrate the unsustainability of current patterns of consumption and production
  • Some critics argue that sustainable development does not adequately address the limits to growth and the need to reduce overall resource consumption and ecological footprint, particularly in high-income countries

Anthropocentrism vs ecocentrism debate

  • The anthropocentrism vs ecocentrism debate focuses on the ethical and philosophical foundations of sustainable development, and the extent to which it prioritizes human needs and values over the intrinsic value of nature and non-human species
  • Anthropocentrism is the view that human beings are the central or most important element of existence, and that the value of nature and other species is primarily instrumental to human well-being
  • Ecocentrism is the view that nature has intrinsic value and moral status, and that human activities should be constrained by the need to protect and preserve natural systems and biodiversity
  • Some critics argue that sustainable development is fundamentally anthropocentric, and does not adequately challenge the dominant worldview of human exceptionalism and dominance over nature

Future of sustainable development

  • As the world faces growing challenges such as climate change, biodiversity loss, and rising inequality, the future of sustainable development will require new approaches and paradigms that can transform current systems and practices
  • The post-2030 sustainable development agenda, the concept of the Anthropocene, and the need for transformative pathways to sustainability are key issues and debates that will shape the future of sustainable development
  • Achieving a sustainable and equitable future will require a fundamental shift in values, behaviors, and institutions, and a collective commitment to building a world that works for both people and the planet

Post-2030 sustainable development agenda

  • As the 2030 deadline for the Sustainable Development Goals approaches, there is growing debate and discussion about what the post-2030 sustainable development agenda should look like
  • Some key issues and priorities for the post-2030 agenda include addressing the root causes of poverty and inequality, accelerating the transition to a low-carbon and climate-resilient economy, and protecting and restoring biodiversity and ecosystems
  • The post-2030 agenda will also need to address emerging challenges such as the impacts of new technologies, the changing nature of work, and the growing influence of non-state actors in global governance

Sustainable development in the Anthropocene

  • The Anthropocene is a proposed new geological epoch characterized by the dominant influence of human activities on the Earth's systems and processes
  • The concept of the Anthropocene challenges the traditional view of sustainable development as a balance between economic, social, and environmental objectives, and highlights the need for a more fundamental transformation of human-nature relations
  • Sustainable development in the Anthropocene will require new approaches that recognize the interdependence of human and natural systems, and that seek to build resilience and adaptability in the face of global change and uncertainty

Transformative pathways to sustainability

  • Achieving a sustainable and equitable future will require transformative pathways that can fundamentally reshape current systems and practices, and that can address the root causes of unsustainability and inequality
  • Transformative pathways to sustainability may involve a range of strategies and approaches, such as the transition to a circular economy, the adoption of nature-based solutions, and the empowerment of marginalized and vulnerable communities
  • Achieving transformative change will require a collective effort that engages all sectors of society, including governments, businesses, civil society, and individuals, and that is guided by a shared vision and values of sustainability, equity, and justice

Key Terms to Review (19)

Agenda 2030: Agenda 2030 is a global framework adopted by the United Nations in 2015 to promote sustainable development through a set of 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). These goals aim to address a wide range of social, economic, and environmental challenges by the year 2030, emphasizing the need for global cooperation and sustainable practices to ensure that no one is left behind.
Amartya Sen: Amartya Sen is an Indian economist and philosopher renowned for his work on welfare economics, social choice theory, and development economics. His ideas emphasize the importance of human capabilities and the role of individual freedoms in evaluating social welfare, which connects deeply with concepts of global governance, human rights, and sustainable development.
Collaboration: Collaboration refers to the process where individuals or groups work together towards a common goal, sharing resources, knowledge, and skills to achieve desired outcomes. In the context of sustainable development, collaboration is crucial as it allows diverse stakeholders, including governments, NGOs, and communities, to join forces and leverage their strengths for greater impact in addressing complex challenges such as poverty, climate change, and social inequality.
Constructivism: Constructivism is a theoretical approach in international relations that emphasizes the social construction of reality, where the identities and interests of actors are shaped by their interactions and shared norms. It challenges the materialist perspectives of realism and liberalism, focusing instead on how beliefs, ideas, and values influence international politics.
Ecological footprint: The ecological footprint measures the environmental impact of an individual, community, or organization by calculating the amount of land and water area required to produce the resources consumed and to absorb the waste generated. This concept connects deeply with sustainable practices and green theory, highlighting the balance between consumption and the Earth's regenerative capacity.
Environmental governance: Environmental governance refers to the processes and structures through which societies manage their interactions with the environment, including the development and implementation of policies, regulations, and practices aimed at promoting sustainable use of natural resources. This concept emphasizes the importance of collaboration among various stakeholders, such as governments, businesses, and civil society, to address environmental challenges and ensure that development meets the needs of both current and future generations.
Green economy: A green economy is an economic system that aims to reduce environmental risks and ecological scarcities while promoting sustainable development without degrading the environment. It focuses on achieving economic growth while ensuring that natural resources are managed in a way that is sustainable, leading to social equity and environmental health. This model emphasizes the importance of sustainable practices, resource efficiency, and renewable energy as pathways to foster a resilient economy that benefits both people and the planet.
Impact assessment: Impact assessment is a systematic process used to evaluate the potential effects of a proposed project or policy on the environment, society, and economy. This process aims to inform decision-makers about the possible consequences of their actions, helping to ensure sustainable development by balancing economic growth with environmental protection and social equity.
Intergenerational equity: Intergenerational equity refers to the principle of fairness and justice between generations, ensuring that present actions do not compromise the ability of future generations to meet their own needs. This concept is crucial in discussions about sustainable development as it emphasizes the responsibility to manage resources wisely and consider long-term impacts on the environment and society.
Jeffrey Sachs: Jeffrey Sachs is an American economist and public policy analyst, known for his work on sustainable development, economic reform, and poverty alleviation. He gained international prominence for his role as an advisor to various governments and international organizations, focusing on strategies to foster economic growth while addressing environmental and social challenges.
Liberalism: Liberalism is a political and economic philosophy that emphasizes individual freedoms, democracy, and the rule of law, advocating for cooperation among states through institutions and international norms. It promotes the idea that human nature is essentially good and that progress can be achieved through social reform, open markets, and respect for human rights.
Multilateralism: Multilateralism refers to the practice of coordinating national policies in groups of three or more states, typically through international institutions or organizations. It emphasizes collective decision-making and cooperation among multiple countries to address global challenges, fostering dialogue and shared responsibilities over unilateral actions.
Paris Agreement: The Paris Agreement is an international treaty adopted in 2015 that aims to combat climate change by limiting global warming to well below 2 degrees Celsius above pre-industrial levels. This agreement connects nations in a shared commitment to address climate change, enhance resilience, and support sustainable development, influencing global governance and cooperation.
Precautionary principle: The precautionary principle is an approach to environmental and public health decision-making that advocates for preventive action in the face of uncertainty. It emphasizes that if an action, policy, or project has the potential to cause harm to the public or the environment, in the absence of scientific consensus, the burden of proof falls on those advocating for the action. This principle is closely tied to concepts of sustainable development and green theory, as it promotes taking proactive measures to protect natural resources and ecosystems.
Realism: Realism is a theoretical framework in international relations that emphasizes the competitive and conflictual nature of international politics. It argues that states are the primary actors in an anarchic international system, where each state acts in its own self-interest to ensure survival and power. This perspective underscores the importance of military capability, national interest, and power dynamics in shaping global interactions.
Sustainability Indicators: Sustainability indicators are quantitative or qualitative metrics used to assess and monitor the progress of sustainability initiatives and the overall health of environmental, social, and economic systems. These indicators help gauge how well a community or organization is performing in achieving sustainable development goals, providing valuable data for decision-making and policy formulation.
Sustainable Development Goals: Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) are a collection of 17 global objectives set by the United Nations in 2015, aiming to address various social, economic, and environmental challenges by 2030. These goals are interconnected and designed to ensure a better and more sustainable future for all, emphasizing the need for collective action and collaboration among nations, organizations, and individuals.
Sustainable finance: Sustainable finance refers to financial activities that take into account environmental, social, and governance (ESG) factors when making investment decisions. This approach aims to support sustainable development by aligning financial flows with projects that have positive social and environmental impacts while minimizing negative effects. The integration of sustainability into finance helps promote a more responsible allocation of capital, encouraging investments in renewable energy, sustainable agriculture, and other initiatives that contribute to long-term ecological and social well-being.
Sustainable livelihoods: Sustainable livelihoods refer to a holistic approach that enables individuals and communities to secure the means of living in a way that is environmentally sound, socially equitable, and economically viable. This concept emphasizes the importance of resilience and adaptability in the face of changing conditions, aiming to ensure that people can maintain or improve their quality of life over time without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs.
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