Question

What is sustainable development? Why there is need for sustainable development.

Answer 1

1.Sustainable development can be defined as development which meets the needs of thepresent without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs.

2.The concept of sustainable development can be interpreted in many different ways, but at itscore is an approach to development that looks to balance different, and often competing,needs against an awareness of environmental, social and economic limitations we face as asociety.

3.It is based on improving the quality of life for all, especially the poor and deprivedwithin the carrying capacity of the supporting ecosystems. It is a process which leadsto a better quality of life while reducing the impact on the environment.

4.Its strength is that it acknowledges the interdependence of human needs andenvironmental requirements.

5.To ensure sustainable development, any activity that is expected to bring abouteconomic growth must also consider its environmental impacts so that it is moreconsistent with long term growth and development.

6.Many ‘development projects’, such as dams, mines, roads, industries and tourismdevelopment, have severe environmental consequences that must be studied beforethey are even begun. Thus for every project, in a strategy that looks at sustainabledevelopment, there must be a scientifically and honestly done EIA, without which theprojects may not be cleared.