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The concept of sustainable development has emerged as a central theme in environmental geography, addressing the challenge of balancing economic growth, social progress, and environmental protection. Since its global recognition in the Brundtland Commission Report of 1987, sustainable development has been at the core of environmental policies and global initiatives. For students and aspirants preparing for UPSC, UGC NET, and competitive exams, understanding its meaning, principles, and global conferences is crucial for both academic success and practical awareness.
The idea of sustainable development draws upon the wisdom of Mahatma Gandhi, who emphasized meeting needs over greed. This vision was formalized by the Brundtland Commission in 1987 through the report Our Common Future. It defined sustainable development as “meeting present needs without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own.” The concept emphasizes an integrated approach to economic viability, social equity, and environmental preservation.
The term has evolved to signify much more than a developmental strategy—it is a philosophy of coexistence between humans and nature, rooted in equity and conservation.
The World Commission on Environment and Development (WCED), popularly known as the Brundtland Commission, released the report Our Common Future in 1987. This document popularized the term sustainable development.
The philosophy behind sustainability extends beyond economics into ethical responsibility and interconnectedness of life.
Environmental sustainability stresses the responsible and regenerative use of natural resources, ensuring that human activities remain within the Earth’s ecological limits.
The sustainable yield of resources forms the basis of ecological management.
Despite global awareness, the world faces accelerating environmental degradation due to mismanagement.
Sustainability rests on three fundamental pillars, which must work in harmony to ensure long-term survival.
This dimension emphasizes equity, justice, and inclusivity in development.
It ensures the health of ecosystems and acts as the backbone of all sustainability models.
It focuses on achieving long-term economic stability without depleting resources.
Global conferences have played a defining role in promoting sustainable development as a shared global mission.
The Rio Earth Summit, held in Brazil in 1992, was a landmark in environmental governance.
In conclusion, sustainable development represents the guiding principle for humanity’s survival in the 21st century. Rooted in the Brundtland Report of 1987 and reinforced through the Rio Summit of 1992, it emphasizes the interdependence of social equity, environmental conservation, and economic growth. For students and aspirants, mastering this concept is vital for examinations and for understanding the pressing global issues of climate change, resource management, and sustainable futures.
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