Sustainable development

Definition

Sustainable development is a method 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 progress does not harm the planet or its inhabitants.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Sustainable development seeks to integrate economic, social, and environmental goals into decision-making processes to create a holistic approach to progress.
2. The United Nations established the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) in 2015 as a global framework to address urgent challenges like poverty, inequality, and climate change.
3. Key principles of sustainable development include intergenerational equity, biodiversity conservation, and the precautionary principle to prevent environmental degradation.
4. Sustainable design practices focus on using eco-friendly materials, energy-efficient technologies, and reducing waste throughout the product lifecycle.
5. Incorporating sustainable development into engineering design not only benefits the environment but can also lead to cost savings and improved quality of life.

Review Questions

• How does sustainable development influence design choices in engineering?
  • Sustainable development influences design choices by encouraging engineers to consider environmental impacts, resource efficiency, and social implications throughout the design process. This means selecting materials that are renewable or recyclable, utilizing energy-efficient technologies, and minimizing waste generation. Ultimately, this approach leads to products and systems that are not only more environmentally friendly but also socially responsible.
• Evaluate the role of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) in shaping engineering practices and policies.
  • The Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) play a crucial role in shaping engineering practices and policies by providing a comprehensive framework for addressing global challenges. By aligning engineering projects with specific SDGs, engineers can prioritize initiatives that promote sustainability, such as clean water access, renewable energy solutions, and sustainable cities. This alignment helps to ensure that engineering efforts contribute positively to society while addressing pressing environmental concerns.
• Propose a strategy for integrating sustainable development principles into a new engineering project while considering potential challenges.
  • Integrating sustainable development principles into a new engineering project could involve conducting a thorough lifecycle assessment to evaluate environmental impacts at each stage. A strategy might include collaborating with stakeholders to identify sustainability goals relevant to the community's needs and preferences. Challenges could arise from budget constraints or resistance to change; however, addressing these issues through education and clear communication about long-term benefits can foster acceptance and support for sustainable practices.

Related terms

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

Ecological Footprint: A measure of the environmental impact of an individual, community, or organization, expressed as the amount of land and water area required to produce the resources consumed and absorb the waste generated.

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