Sustainable development goals

Definition

Sustainable development goals (SDGs) are a set of 17 global objectives established by the United Nations in 2015 to address a range of social, economic, and environmental challenges. These goals aim to promote prosperity while protecting the planet, ensuring that future generations can meet their own needs. They connect various international efforts, guiding countries towards a sustainable future and addressing issues like poverty, inequality, climate change, and environmental degradation.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The 17 sustainable development goals cover a wide range of issues including poverty alleviation, quality education, gender equality, clean water and sanitation, and climate action.
2. Each goal has specific targets and indicators to measure progress, helping nations monitor their achievements towards sustainability.
3. The SDGs emphasize the importance of partnership among governments, civil society, and the private sector to achieve sustainable outcomes.
4. Progress on the SDGs is monitored through regular reports by countries, showcasing their advancements and challenges in implementing these global objectives.
5. Achieving the sustainable development goals requires integrated approaches that recognize the interconnectedness of social, economic, and environmental systems.

Review Questions

• How do sustainable development goals promote global cooperation among nations?
  • Sustainable development goals encourage global cooperation by providing a shared framework for countries to work together towards common objectives. This collaborative effort fosters partnerships among governments, NGOs, and private sectors across borders. By aligning national policies with SDGs, countries can share best practices, technologies, and resources, ultimately enhancing their collective capacity to tackle pressing global challenges like poverty and climate change.
• Discuss the role of international geothermal policies in achieving sustainable development goals related to energy.
  • International geothermal policies play a crucial role in achieving sustainable development goals by promoting renewable energy sources that contribute to affordable and clean energy access. These policies encourage investment in geothermal energy projects that can reduce greenhouse gas emissions and diversify energy portfolios. By integrating geothermal solutions into national energy strategies, countries can not only meet their energy needs sustainably but also align with broader goals related to climate action and economic growth.
• Evaluate the impact of achieving the sustainable development goals on local communities and global sustainability.
  • Achieving the sustainable development goals has profound impacts on local communities by promoting inclusive growth, improving health and education, and enhancing environmental resilience. When these goals are met, communities experience reduced poverty levels and increased access to essential services. On a global scale, success in these areas contributes to long-term sustainability by fostering equitable resource use and reducing ecological footprints. This collective progress strengthens global systems against climate change and promotes overall well-being for future generations.

Related terms

Agenda 2030: The 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development is a plan of action adopted by all United Nations Member States to promote prosperity while protecting the planet, with a target date for achievement set in 2030.

Climate Action: Climate action refers to efforts to mitigate climate change and its impacts, which is one of the key goals outlined within the sustainable development framework.

Equity: Equity involves ensuring fair treatment, access, opportunity, and advancement for all individuals, which is a fundamental principle underlying the sustainable development goals.