Sustainable Development Goals

Definition

Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) are a universal call to action established by the United Nations in 2015 to end poverty, protect the planet, and ensure prosperity for all as part of a new sustainable development agenda. They encompass 17 interconnected goals that address global challenges, including those related to food systems and environmental nutrition, emphasizing the need for equitable access to nutritious food while safeguarding the environment for future generations.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The Sustainable Development Goals consist of 17 goals and 169 targets that address various aspects of sustainability, including environmental, social, and economic dimensions.
2. Goal 2 focuses specifically on ending hunger, achieving food security and improved nutrition, and promoting sustainable agriculture.
3. The SDGs emphasize the importance of partnerships among governments, businesses, and civil society to achieve these goals effectively.
4. Achieving the SDGs requires transformative changes in how we produce and consume food, with a focus on sustainability and reducing waste.
5. The SDGs aim to balance human well-being with the health of the planet, recognizing that sustainable food systems are essential for both environmental sustainability and nutrition security.

Review Questions

• How do the Sustainable Development Goals relate to the concepts of food systems and environmental nutrition?
  • The Sustainable Development Goals directly relate to food systems and environmental nutrition through their emphasis on achieving food security and promoting sustainable agricultural practices. Goal 2 aims to end hunger and ensure access to safe, nutritious food while also encouraging sustainable farming methods that protect ecosystems. This connection highlights the necessity of creating food systems that not only meet current nutritional needs but also safeguard environmental resources for future generations.
• Discuss the challenges that must be addressed to achieve Goal 2 of the Sustainable Development Goals regarding hunger and nutrition.
  • To achieve Goal 2 regarding hunger and nutrition, several challenges must be addressed, including improving agricultural productivity while minimizing environmental impact. This involves tackling issues like food waste, inequitable distribution of resources, and the effects of climate change on food production. Additionally, there is a need for better policies that support smallholder farmers and promote sustainable practices that contribute to both food security and environmental health.
• Evaluate the role of partnerships in successfully implementing the Sustainable Development Goals related to sustainable food systems and environmental nutrition.
  • Partnerships play a crucial role in implementing the Sustainable Development Goals related to sustainable food systems and environmental nutrition by bringing together diverse stakeholders such as governments, NGOs, businesses, and local communities. Collaborative efforts can enhance resource sharing, innovation, and best practices aimed at achieving these goals. By working together across sectors, stakeholders can create more resilient food systems that support nutritional needs while addressing environmental challenges, ultimately leading to a more sustainable future.

Related terms

Food Security: A condition in which all people have access to sufficient, safe, and nutritious food to meet their dietary needs for an active and healthy life.

Climate Action: Efforts aimed at mitigating climate change and its impacts, which are crucial for ensuring sustainable food systems and preserving environmental health.

Biodiversity: The variety of life in the world or in a particular habitat or ecosystem, which is essential for maintaining balanced and resilient food systems.