SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT
Balancing Growth with Environmental Responsibility
Presented By: [Your Name]
Class: [Your Class]
School/College Name:
Date:
Introduction to Sustainable Development
Sustainable development is the practice of meeting the needs of the present without
compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs. It integrates three
main goals: economic growth, environmental protection, and social inclusion.
Key Principles:
- Intergenerational equity
- Integration of environmental, social, and economic aspects
- Participatory decision-making
- Precautionary approach
Historical Background
The concept gained global recognition after the 1987 Brundtland Report by the World
Commission on Environment and Development (WCED).
Major Milestones:
- 1992: Earth Summit (Rio de Janeiro)
- 2000: Millennium Development Goals (MDGs)
- 2015: Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
The 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
Adopted by the United Nations in 2015, the 17 SDGs aim to end poverty, protect the planet,
and ensure prosperity for all.
Some Key Goals:
- No Poverty (Goal 1)
- Quality Education (Goal 4)
- Clean Water and Sanitation (Goal 6)
- Climate Action (Goal 13)
- Life Below Water (Goal 14)
Environmental Sustainability
Key Areas:
- Renewable Energy (Solar, Wind)
- Forest Conservation
- Pollution Control
- Waste Management
Case Study: Sweden’s Renewable Energy Policy
Sweden generates over 50% of its energy from renewable sources.
Economic Sustainability
Focus Areas:
- Green jobs
- Sustainable agriculture
- Responsible consumption
Example: Green Economy
A green economy results in improved human well-being and social equity while reducing
environmental risks.
Social Sustainability
Core Elements:
- Equity and access to resources
- Gender equality
- Education and health for all
Example: Education for Sustainable Development (UNESCO Program)
Challenges to Sustainable Development
- Climate Change
- Resource Depletion
- Pollution
- Political Resistance
- Lack of Funding
Solutions:
- Global cooperation
- Innovation and technology
- Policy reforms
- Public awareness
Case Studies and Success Stories
1. Costa Rica: Nearly 99% renewable energy use
2. Germany: Energiewende (Energy Transition)
3. Bhutan: Carbon-negative country
Conclusion & References
Conclusion:
Sustainable development is not just an option—it is essential for the survival and prosperity
of future generations. Each of us has a role to play in building a sustainable future.
References:
- United Nations Sustainable Development Goals: https://sdgs.un.org
- Brundtland Report, 1987
- UNESCO ESD Program
- WWF, UNEP Reports