Previous Year Question

Sustainable Development is development in which natural resources are used to meet the needs of the present generation without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs. It emphasises maintaining a balance between economic development, social welfare, and environmental protection.

In 1987, the World Commission on Environment and Development (WCED) published a report titled Our Common Future, also known as the Brundtland Report. This report presented the widely accepted definition of Sustainable Development. The Commission was chaired by former Norwegian Prime Minister Gro Harlem Brundtland.

Sustainable Development does not mean sacrificing all the comforts or living standards of the present generation, but using energy, water, forests, land, and other resources efficiently and responsibly. It gives importance to Renewable Energy, Energy Efficiency, pollution control, biodiversity conservation, and Recycling of resources.

The three major dimensions of Sustainable Development are:

1. Economic Dimension: Efficient use of resources, production, employment, and long-term economic stability.

2. Social Dimension: Poverty reduction, education, healthcare, equal opportunities, and social inclusion.

3. Environmental Dimension: Conservation of natural resources, pollution control, and maintenance of ecological balance.

Economic Growth primarily represents an increase in real output or GDP, whereas Economic Development includes improvements in social and economic conditions along with income. Human Development focuses on expanding human capabilities and opportunities through health, education, and living standards.

In September 2015, the United Nations General Assembly adopted the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, under which 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and 169 targets were established. These goals encompass the interconnected aspects of economic, social, and environmental development.