Introduction to Sustainable Development (Week 1)

Question 1

What is sustainable development?

Answer 1

Sustainable development is a development approach that meets the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs. It seeks to balance three core elements:

Economic growth – improving living standards and economic opportunities for all.
Environmental protection – preserving natural resources and ecosystems.
Social inclusion – ensuring equal opportunities, reducing inequality, and promoting well-being for all people.
This concept was first widely articulated in the 1987 Brundtland Report by the World Commission on Environment and Development.

Question 2

Issues and Challenges Related to the Current Paradigms of Development

Answer 2

1. Unsustainability of Economic Growth Models
2. Rising Global Inequality
3. Environmental Collapse and Climate Change
4. Institutional Failure and Governance Deficits
5. Inflexibility of Global Financial Architecture
6. Neglect of Indigenous and Local Knowledge
7. Technological Disruption and Inequity
8. Fragmented Global Response to Crises
9. Inadequate Inclusion of Gender and Social Justice
10. Lack of Paradigm Shift in Education and Planning