Sustainable Development

Definition

Sustainable development is a method of growth that meets the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs. It integrates environmental health, economic viability, and social equity to ensure a balanced approach to development that preserves resources and promotes well-being for all. This concept is crucial as it addresses environmental impact, supports environmentalism, informs urban planning, and ties into various economic development theories.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The Brundtland Commission's 1987 report 'Our Common Future' is one of the key documents that popularized the term 'sustainable development.'
2. Sustainable development emphasizes the interconnection between economic growth, environmental protection, and social inclusion.
3. It aims to minimize resource depletion and reduce pollution through practices like renewable energy use and sustainable agriculture.
4. The United Nations has adopted the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), a universal call to action to end poverty, protect the planet, and ensure prosperity for all by 2030.
5. Challenges to sustainable development include climate change, biodiversity loss, and social inequality, which require integrated solutions across various sectors.

Review Questions

• How does sustainable development address environmental impact in modern society?
  • Sustainable development directly tackles environmental impact by promoting practices that minimize resource depletion and pollution. It encourages the use of renewable resources, energy efficiency, and sustainable land management. By focusing on these aspects, sustainable development seeks to create a balance between meeting current needs and protecting the environment for future generations.
• Discuss how sustainable development principles can influence urban planning and infrastructure projects.
  • Sustainable development principles can significantly shape urban planning by integrating green spaces, promoting public transport systems, and designing energy-efficient buildings. These principles advocate for creating livable cities that prioritize both environmental health and social equity. By considering long-term impacts on resources and communities, urban planners can develop infrastructure that supports sustainability goals.
• Evaluate the effectiveness of economic development theories in promoting sustainable development and their implications for policy-making.
  • Economic development theories such as inclusive growth or degrowth can be effective in promoting sustainable development by emphasizing equitable resource distribution and prioritizing ecological health over mere economic expansion. These theories influence policy-making by encouraging governments to invest in green technologies, social programs, and regulations that align with sustainability goals. Evaluating their effectiveness requires examining real-world outcomes where these theories have been implemented, particularly in reducing environmental degradation while enhancing community welfare.

Related terms

Ecological Footprint:

A measure of the environmental impact of an individual or population, reflecting the amount of natural resources consumed and waste produced.

Green Economy:

An economic system aimed at reducing environmental risks and ecological scarcities, promoting sustainable practices that enhance human well-being.

Social Justice:

The concept of ensuring fair treatment, opportunities, and advancement for all individuals in society, focusing on equity in resource distribution and access.