Sustainable development

Definition

Sustainable development refers to a mode of human development in which resource use aims to meet human needs while preserving the environment for future generations. It emphasizes balancing economic growth, environmental integrity, and social equity to ensure that resources are available not just for today, but for years to come.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Sustainable development seeks to balance the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs.
2. The concept emerged in the 1980s and was popularized by the Brundtland Report in 1987, which emphasized the interconnectedness of economic growth, social inclusion, and environmental protection.
3. It plays a critical role in addressing climate change by promoting practices that reduce greenhouse gas emissions and enhance resilience to climate impacts.
4. Sustainable development is closely linked to the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), which provide a framework for addressing global challenges by 2030.
5. Adopting sustainable practices can lead to economic benefits such as job creation in green industries and increased efficiency in resource use.

Review Questions

• How does sustainable development address the interplay between economic growth and environmental concerns?
  • Sustainable development addresses the relationship between economic growth and environmental concerns by promoting practices that allow for economic advancement while safeguarding natural resources. This includes fostering industries that prioritize eco-friendly technologies and sustainable resource management. By integrating environmental considerations into economic planning, sustainable development seeks to mitigate negative impacts on ecosystems and promotes long-term prosperity.
• In what ways does resource extraction impact sustainable development efforts in various regions?
  • Resource extraction significantly impacts sustainable development by often leading to environmental degradation, loss of biodiversity, and social displacement. Unsustainable extraction practices can undermine local communities’ livelihoods and worsen inequalities. To align resource extraction with sustainable development goals, it is essential to implement responsible practices that minimize environmental harm while providing socio-economic benefits to affected populations.
• Evaluate the role of sustainable development in mitigating climate change and its potential economic implications globally.
  • Sustainable development plays a crucial role in mitigating climate change by promoting renewable energy sources, enhancing energy efficiency, and encouraging sustainable land use practices. These measures can significantly reduce greenhouse gas emissions, contributing to global climate goals. The economic implications are vast; transitioning to a sustainable economy can create new jobs in green sectors, foster innovation in technology, and improve resilience against climate-related disruptions, ultimately leading to a more stable global economy.

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 ecosystems, including clean water, pollination, and climate regulation.

Circular economy: An economic model aimed at minimizing waste and making the most of resources by reusing, recycling, and repairing products.