Ecology-and-environment / Sustainable Development / Sustainable Development
Sustainable Development
What is Sustainable Development?
- In 1987, the United Nations released the Brundtland Report, which included what is now one of the most widely recognised definitions: “Sustainable Development is development that meets the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs (from the World Commission on Environment and Development’s (the Brundtland Commission) Report ‘Our Common Future’.
- According to the same Report, the above definition contains within it two key concepts:
- The concept of ‘needs’, in particular the essential needs of the world’s poor; and
- The idea of limitations imposed by the state on technology and social organization on the environment’s ability to meet present and future needs
- For sustainable development to be achieved, it is crucial to harmonize three core elements: economic growth, social inclusion and environmental protection. These elements are interconnected and all are crucial for the well-being of individuals and societies.
- Eradicating poverty in all its forms and dimensions is an indispensable requirement for sustainable development. To this end, there must be promotion of sustainable, inclusive and equitable economic growth, creating greater opportunities for all, reducing inequalities, raising basic standards of living, fostering equitable social development and inclusion, and promoting integrated and sustainable management of natural resources and ecosystems.
Sustainable Development Goals
- The Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), also known as the Global Goals, were adopted by all United Nations Member States in 2015 as a universal call to action to end poverty, protect the planet and ensure that all people enjoy peace and prosperity by 2030.
