Sustainable development

Definition

Sustainable development is a holistic approach to growth that seeks to meet the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs. It emphasizes balancing economic growth, social inclusion, and environmental protection, promoting a system that encourages responsible use of resources, conservation efforts, and equity among communities.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Sustainable development integrates economic growth with environmental stewardship and social well-being, creating a framework for decision-making that supports long-term health of the planet.
2. The concept became widely recognized with the 1987 Brundtland Report, which introduced the idea that sustainable development should address both current and future human needs.
3. It focuses on various sectors, including energy, transportation, agriculture, and urban development, pushing for practices that minimize waste and pollution.
4. Sustainable development initiatives often involve local communities in decision-making processes to ensure that their needs and knowledge contribute to more effective solutions.
5. Achieving sustainable development requires collaboration across multiple sectors including government, businesses, non-profits, and local communities to create inclusive policies and practices.

Review Questions

• How does sustainable development address resource depletion while ensuring economic growth?
  • Sustainable development tackles resource depletion by promoting the responsible use of natural resources alongside economic growth. By advocating for renewable resources and efficient technologies, it aims to minimize the impact on the environment while supporting economic activities. This balance ensures that while economies grow, they do not over-exploit resources to the detriment of future generations.
• In what ways do conservation efforts align with the principles of sustainable development?
  • Conservation efforts directly align with sustainable development by emphasizing the need to protect ecosystems and biodiversity as essential components of sustainability. These efforts contribute to maintaining natural resources that support human life while also preserving habitats for wildlife. By incorporating conservation into planning and policy-making, communities can work toward long-term sustainability goals that benefit both people and the environment.
• Evaluate how sustainable development principles can promote environmental justice in marginalized communities.
  • Sustainable development principles can significantly promote environmental justice by ensuring equitable access to resources and opportunities for marginalized communities. By prioritizing social inclusion in sustainability initiatives, these communities can have a voice in decisions affecting their environment and health. This approach not only helps rectify historical inequalities but also fosters resilience against environmental challenges by empowering local populations to participate in creating sustainable solutions tailored to their specific needs.

Related terms

Ecological footprint: A measure of the environmental impact of an individual or community, indicating how much land and resources are required to sustain their lifestyle.

Renewable resources: Natural resources that can be replenished naturally over time, such as solar energy, wind energy, and timber when managed sustainably.

Intergenerational equity:

The principle of fairness and justice in how resources are allocated among different generations, ensuring that future generations have access to necessary resources.