Tag: Sustainable development

Sustainable development

Sustainable development is an organizing principle for meeting human development goals additionally sustaining the ability of natural systems. The goal is to provide natural resources and ecosystem services on which the economy and society depend.

The desired result: a state of society where living conditions and resources  meet with human needs without undermining the integrity and stability of natural systems. First it was defined in the 1987 Brundtland Report as “Development that meets the needs of the present generation without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs”.

Economic development

The concept developed and shifted its focus more towards the economic, and social development and environmental protection for future generations.

In 2015 the United Nations General Assembly adopted the Sustainable Development Goals (2015 to 2030). It explains how goals integrated and indivisible to achieve sustainable development at the global level.

UNESCO formulated a distinction between two concepts:

• “sustainability is often thought of as a long-term goal (i.e. a more sustainable world), while
• sustainable development refers to many processes and pathways to achieve it.”

However some see it as paradoxical and regard development as inherently unsustainable, others are disappointed in the lack of progress that has been achieved so far.

Sustainable development goals

17 goals address the global challenges, including poverty, inequality, climate change, environmental degradation, peace, and justice.

Sustainable cities and communities

Sustainable Cities and Communities are environmentally sustainable in terms of cleanliness and efficiency.

Furthermore they are resilient to social, economic, and natural shocks. Well prepared for natural disasters, which are increasing in intensity and frequency due to climate change. Sustainable Communities are inclusive.

They bring all groups of people—including the marginalized and vulnerable—into their markets, services, and development rather than separate them. These communities are competitive. They can stay productive and generate jobs for members of the community.