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 so that these needs can be met not only in the present but also for future generations. It balances economic growth, environmental protection, and social equity, ensuring that the well-being of both current and future populations is considered.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Sustainable development emphasizes the need for policies that integrate economic, social, and environmental considerations in decision-making processes.
2. The United Nations established the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, which includes 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) aimed at addressing global challenges such as poverty, inequality, and climate change.
3. One key aspect of sustainable development is promoting sustainable practices in agriculture, energy production, and waste management to minimize environmental degradation.
4. Sustainable development encourages local communities' involvement in decision-making to ensure that development efforts are tailored to their unique cultural and environmental contexts.
5. The concept is rooted in the idea that economic growth should not come at the expense of environmental health or social justice.

Review Questions

• How does sustainable development integrate economic, social, and environmental considerations into planning?
  • Sustainable development integrates these considerations by promoting a holistic approach to planning that ensures economic growth does not harm the environment or exacerbate social inequalities. For example, projects are evaluated not only on their economic viability but also on their potential environmental impacts and effects on community well-being. This interconnected approach helps create solutions that benefit all aspects of society while safeguarding natural resources.
• Discuss the role of renewable resources in achieving sustainable development goals.
  • Renewable resources are essential in achieving sustainable development goals as they provide a clean and sustainable alternative to fossil fuels, reducing greenhouse gas emissions and pollution. By harnessing renewable energy sources like solar and wind power, communities can decrease their reliance on non-renewable resources, thus promoting environmental sustainability. Additionally, using renewable resources fosters economic opportunities and job creation in emerging green industries, aligning with social equity objectives.
• Evaluate the significance of intergenerational equity in sustainable development and how it influences policy-making.
  • Intergenerational equity is crucial for sustainable development as it emphasizes the responsibility of current generations to preserve resources for future generations. This principle influences policy-making by encouraging governments to consider long-term impacts when crafting laws and regulations. By prioritizing sustainability over short-term gains, policymakers can create strategies that protect ecosystems, conserve biodiversity, and ensure resource availability for years to come, ultimately leading to a more equitable distribution of opportunities across generations.

Related terms

Ecological footprint: A measure of the environmental impact of an individual or community, calculated by the amount of land and water needed to produce the resources consumed and to absorb waste.

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

Intergenerational equity: The principle of fairness between generations, ensuring that the actions of the current generation do not compromise the ability of future generations to meet their own needs.