Our Common Future

Definition

Our Common Future refers to the 1987 report by the World Commission on Environment and Development, which emphasizes the need for sustainable development that meets the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs. This concept highlights the interconnectedness of social, economic, and environmental factors in fostering a sustainable global society.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The report Our Common Future is often credited with popularizing the term 'sustainable development' and setting the foundation for global environmental policy.
2. One key aspect of Our Common Future is its focus on the integration of environmental sustainability with economic and social policies.
3. The Brundtland Commission, which authored the report, called for a new model of development that prioritizes environmental integrity alongside economic growth.
4. The document argues that poverty eradication is essential for achieving sustainable development, linking environmental issues with social justice.
5. Our Common Future has influenced numerous international agreements and initiatives, including the Earth Summit in 1992 and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) adopted in 2015.

Review Questions

• How does Our Common Future redefine the relationship between development and environmental sustainability?
  • Our Common Future redefines the relationship by emphasizing that development must be sustainable, meaning it should not harm the environment or deplete resources needed by future generations. The report argues that economic growth should be pursued in ways that enhance ecological health and promote social equity. This approach shifts the focus from short-term gains to long-term sustainability, advocating for practices that support both human well-being and environmental preservation.
• In what ways does the Brundtland Commission's report influence current policies on climate change and sustainability?
  • The Brundtland Commission's report laid the groundwork for contemporary discussions on climate change by highlighting the importance of integrating environmental concerns into all aspects of development policy. It encourages policymakers to adopt strategies that address climate change while fostering economic growth and social inclusion. The report's call for sustainable development principles continues to resonate in current international agreements like the Paris Agreement, where nations commit to reducing greenhouse gas emissions while considering their developmental needs.
• Evaluate the impact of intergenerational equity as discussed in Our Common Future on today's environmental policy-making.
  • Intergenerational equity plays a crucial role in shaping today's environmental policy-making by advocating for fairness in resource distribution between current and future generations. This concept pushes policymakers to consider the long-term implications of their decisions on natural resources, biodiversity, and climate health. As a result, many policies now include sustainability assessments to ensure that actions taken today do not compromise the ability of future generations to thrive, ultimately fostering a more responsible approach to governance and environmental stewardship.

Related terms

Sustainable Development: Development that meets present needs without compromising future generations, balancing economic growth, social inclusion, and environmental protection.

Brundtland Commission: An international commission established by the United Nations in 1983 to address global environmental and developmental challenges, which produced the Our Common Future report.

Intergenerational Equity: The principle that ensures fairness and justice for future generations in terms of resource use, environmental protection, and quality of life.