Finals Flashcards
(29 cards)
“Development that meets the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future
generations to meet their own needs.”
Sustainable Development
Sustainable development is built on
three interdependent pillars
Protecting the planet’s natural systems and resources so that they can continue to support life and
human activity in the long term.
Environmental Sustainability
Key Focus Areas of Environmental Sustainability
Conserving biodiversity and ecosystems
• Reducing pollution (air, water, soil)
• Combating climate change
• Promoting renewable energy
• Sustainable natural resource use (e.g., forestry, water)
Creating long-term economic growth without harming social and environmental systems.
Economic Sustainability
Key Focus Areas of Economic Sustainability
Inclusive economic growth and job creation
• Innovation and sustainable industries
• Responsible consumption and production
Fair trade and ethical business practices
• Green infrastructure and technologies
are a universal blueprint for achieving sustainability across all sectors
Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
The 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
- No Poverty
- Zero Hunger
- Good Health and Well-being
- Quality Education
- Gender Equality
- Clean Water and Sanitation
- Affordable and Clean Energy
- Decent Work and Economic Growth
- Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure
- Reduced Inequalities
- Sustainable Cities and Communities
- Responsible Consumption and Production
- Climate Action
- Life Below Water
- Life on Land
- Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions
- Partnerships for the Goals
Each goal has specific
targets (169 total) and indicators
Earth’s resources are finite; unsustainable consumption leads to scarcity
and ecosystem collapse.
Natural Limits
Global warming affects agriculture, health, sea levels, and disaster
frequency.
Climate Crisis
Inequality and poverty can lead to conflict, migration, and systemic
injustice.
Social Stability
Sustainable development ensures that future generations can enjoy the
same or better quality of life.
Future Security
Fairness between current and future generations.
Intergenerational Equity
Fairness within the current population, addressing inequality.
Intragenerational Equity
Avoiding irreversible damage even when science is uncertain.
Precautionary Approach
Involving communities and stakeholders in decisions.
Participation and Inclusion
Those responsible for pollution should bear the costs.
Polluter Pays Principle
Using resources at a rate that does not exceed their regeneration.
Sustainable Use
Over 50% of electricity from wind power, strong social welfare, and
environmental laws.
Denmark
Measures development through Gross National Happiness and maintains carbon-
negative status
Bhutan
Expanding geothermal and solar energy while empowering women in clean energy
initiatives.
Kenya
A transition to sustainable energy through innovation and
subsidies.
Germany’s Energiewende
involves the
sustainable use and conservation of living natural
resources to maintain biodiversity, support
ecosystems, and provide for human needs
Biological Resources Management
