Contemporary World - Sustainable Development

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Questions and Answers

What does social sustainability focus on enhancing?

  • Enabling conditions for individuals to realize their needs (correct)
  • Meeting everyone's immediate needs
  • Eliminating poverty worldwide
  • Providing resources for government agencies

Which of the following is identified as a barrier to social sustainability?

  • Health care facilities
  • Access to technology
  • Inequality in resource distribution (correct)
  • Abundant natural resources

What is a key aspect of environmental sustainability?

  • Maximizing economic profit without consideration for the environment
  • Focusing solely on technology advancement
  • Preserving ecosystem integrity and carrying capacity (correct)
  • Increasing natural resource extraction

How does climate change relate to environmental sustainability?

<p>It emphasizes the need for sustainable growth practices (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is primarily criticized about free-market and neoliberal economic thinking?

<p>It contributes to extreme levels of inequality. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What role do international governing agencies play in sustainability?

<p>They lead efforts to correct harmful environmental practices (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How does the demand for palm oil impact the environment?

<p>It results in the burning of forests for plantations. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What are the global targets developed by the United Nations aimed at achieving?

<p>A better and more sustainable future addressing various global challenges (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What does sustainability emphasize concerning resources?

<p>Maintaining and supporting resources for future generations. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary danger of unbridled growth referenced in the context of environmental sustainability?

<p>It places unsustainable demands on the earth's resources (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT a focus area of the United Nations global targets?

<p>Technological advancement at any cost (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What distinction is made between stability and sustainability?

<p>Stability is unchanging, while sustainability is about maintaining resources over time. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following best defines sustainable development?

<p>Development that meets present needs while preserving future resources. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is a synonym for stability as mentioned in the content?

<p>Firmness (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What does sustainable development primarily aim to balance?

<p>Economic growth, environmental care, and social well-being (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following does NOT represent sustainable actions?

<p>Exhausting resources for immediate gain. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which factor has contributed to environmental degradation in the South according to the content?

<p>Adoption of Western technologies (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What does the example of a 'sustainable relationship' imply?

<p>A relationship that can adapt but remains positive. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What was a major critique of traditional development models emerging in the 1960s?

<p>They did not account for social and institutional requirements. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What did the term 'Limits to Growth' refer to?

<p>A world-wide alert about unsustainable development practices (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is an essential component of the Three Overlapping Circles Model?

<p>The intersection of economic, environmental, and social factors (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

According to sustainability principles, what must be guaranteed for future generations?

<p>A balance between consumption and conservation (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What do concerns raised in the 1970s primarily relate to?

<p>Environmental and social impacts of development (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What role did education and human capital play in discussions about sustainable development?

<p>They became central topics of concern for organizations like the United Nations. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which goal aims to ensure quality education for all individuals?

<p>Quality education for all (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary purpose of reducing one's carbon footprint?

<p>To mitigate negative environmental impacts (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT considered a simple step toward sustainability?

<p>Increasing consumption of single-use plastics (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which development goal focuses on reducing inequality within and among countries?

<p>Inequality reduction (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the impact of changing consumer habits on sustainability?

<p>It can help reduce negative environmental impacts. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What do the interconnected spheres of sustainability represent?

<p>The relationships among environmental, economic, and social aspects of sustainable development (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

According to Porter and van der Linde, what characterizes the best choices for sustainability?

<p>Choices that are environmentally and economically viable as well as socially equitable (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What illustrates the relationship between lack of employment and environmental harm as posited by Khan?

<p>Joblessness leads to disenfranchisement, prompting harmful ecological practices (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following actions relates directly to sustainable resource management?

<p>Implementing fair labor practices in urban construction projects (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What does the concept of sustainability imply about the decisions made by humanity?

<p>They should consider environmental, economic, and social impacts (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following factors should not be considered essential for sustainable development?

<p>Maximizing short-term profit margins (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

In the context of sustainability, what does proper decision-making aim to achieve?

<p>Sustainable growth for a sustainable society (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the definition of sustainability as per the Bruntland Report?

<p>Development that meets the needs of the present without compromising future needs. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT a domain of sustainability as discussed?

<p>Cultural sustainability (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

According to Plociennik, what aspect of economic theories contributes to the neglect of sustainability?

<p>Focus on technology as a sole solution for resource expansion. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How does the capitalist system's usage of open/waste spaces contribute to environmental degradation?

<p>It exploits resources excessively for consumption patterns. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What historical context does the text provide regarding the issue of sustainability?

<p>Warnings about sustainability were ignored since the time of Malthus. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What does sustainable development imply when taken literally?

<p>Development that can continue indefinitely or for a specified time. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which strategy has been historically associated with the neglect of sustainability by developed countries?

<p>Exploitation of resources in poorer countries to support consumption. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What does Plociennik argue about the relationship between technology and sustainability?

<p>New technologies can help expand output but may not conserve resources. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What challenge do economic models pose regarding environmental resources?

<p>They often disregard the effects of resource depletion on sustainability. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Flashcards

Sustainable development

Development meeting current needs without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs, preserving biodiversity and natural ecosystems for future generations.

Stability

The condition of being stable or in equilibrium, resistant to change, and the tendency to recover from disturbances.

Sustainability

The ability to sustain something, to maintain a process or action over time.

Neoliberal economic thinking

An economic ideology that emphasizes free markets and limited government intervention while fueling globalization.

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Palm oil

A vegetable oil harvested from palm trees that has rapidly growing global demand.

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Unequal resource use

Companies meet increased demand for resources, like palm oil, by expanding operations in unsustainable ways and impacting the environment and future generations.

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Sustainable relationship

A relationship that can be maintained and continue over time.

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Stable building

A building that is firm and does not easily move or shake.

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Resource Depletion

The process of using up natural resources faster than they can be replenished, leading to scarcity.

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Open/Waste Spaces

Land areas, like forests or oceans, used for production and consumption, often at the expense of the environment.

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Malthusian Dilemma

The potential conflict between population growth and limited resources, where resources become harder to access as population increases.

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Predatory Development

Development that benefits some at the expense of others, often exploiting vulnerable groups and ecosystems.

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Economic Models and Sustainability

Economic models often ignore the impact of resource depletion and environmental costs, focusing solely on growth.

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Technological Escape

The belief that technological advancements will solve sustainability problems by allowing us to use resources more efficiently.

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What does the concept of 'development as economic growth' imply?

It views economic development as a linear, progressive path marked by stages of growth and prosperity, often prioritizing economic indicators like GDP.

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What criticisms arose regarding development as 'economic growth'?

Concerns arose that this approach neglected social and environmental costs, ignoring the impact on people and the environment.

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What shift occurred in the early 1960s regarding development?

Emphasis shifted to include social change and institutional needs, recognizing the importance of education and social capital alongside economic growth.

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What role was given to 'human capital' in the 1960s?

This concept emphasized the importance of education, skills, and knowledge in driving development and creating a more equitable society.

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What ecological concerns arose in the 1970s?

Worries grew about unchecked development causing environmental degradation, resource depletion, and biodiversity loss especially in the South.

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What was the 'Limits to Growth' report?

A study by the Club of Rome warning that continued economic and population growth would eventually deplete limited resources and lead to environmental collapse.

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What is the Three Overlapping Circles Model?

It represents the interconnectedness of economic, social, and environmental dimensions of sustainable development. The size of each circle reflects the emphasis placed on each factor.

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Sustainable Development Goals

17 interconnected goals set by the United Nations to address global challenges like poverty, hunger, and climate change by 2030.

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Carbon Footprint

The total amount of greenhouse gases released into the atmosphere by a person, organization, or product.

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Sustainable Consumption

Using resources wisely, without compromising future generations' needs.

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Tree Planting Projects

Planting trees to combat deforestation, absorb CO2, and improve biodiversity.

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Environment-Friendly Practices

Actions and choices that minimize negative impacts on the environment, like reducing waste and using renewable energy.

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Triple Bottom Line

The interconnected spheres of sustainability, focusing on environmental, economic, and social aspects to achieve sustainable development. It emphasizes the importance of balancing these three areas for long-term well-being.

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Sustainable Resource Management

Making wise decisions about using natural resources to ensure their availability for present and future generations. This includes strategies to minimize waste, promote resource efficiency, and protect ecosystems.

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Interconnected Sustainability Spheres

The environmental, economic, and social aspects of sustainability are not independent but intertwined. Actions in one sphere often impact the others, highlighting the need for integrated solutions.

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Social Impact of Environmental Degradation

The consequences of environmental damage on people's lives, including poverty, inequality, and conflict. For example, deforestation can force people to migrate or into poverty and disrupt their livelihoods.

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Integrated Approach to Sustainability

Addressing sustainability challenges holistically by considering the environmental, economic, and social impacts of decisions. It involves collaboration and coordination across sectors to achieve long-term well-being.

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Sustainable Growth

Economic growth that balances environmental protection and social equity. It focuses on quality of life, well-being, and resource conservation instead of simply economic expansion.

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Ecologically Sound

Actions that minimize harm to the natural environment. It involves practices that conserve biodiversity, reduce pollution, and promote resource efficiency.

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Social Sustainability

Focuses on creating conditions for everyone to fulfill their needs, addressing any barriers that prevent this capacity for individuals, organizations, or communities.

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Environmental Sustainability

Ensures the natural environment remains productive and resilient to support human life, focusing on ecosystem integrity and carrying capacity.

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Natural Capital

Resources from the natural environment that provide economic inputs and absorb waste, essential for sustainable development.

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Carrying Capacity

The maximum population that a given environment can sustainably support without exceeding its resource base.

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Climate Change

Significant and long-lasting shifts in the Earth's climate system, caused by natural variability or human activities.

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Nexus

A connection or link between two or more things, particularly when they are interdependent.

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Barriers to Social Sustainability

Factors that hinder individuals, organizations, or communities from achieving their full potential and realizing their needs.

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Sustainable Future

A vision of a future where resources are managed responsibly, social equity is achieved, and environmental damage is minimized.

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Study Notes

Contemporary World - Sustainable Development

  • Many scholars critique free-market economics for fueling globalization, inequality, and environmental destruction. Companies expand operations, leading to urbanization and deforestation (e.g., palm oil plantations in Indonesia, Mozambique, and Malaysia).
  • Stability is a state of equilibrium, resistant to change. Sustainability is the ability to maintain something, considering future generations. It involves meeting present needs without compromising future generations' ability to meet their needs.
  • Sustainable development is a vital concept in development discussions. It aims to balance economic growth with environmental protection and social well-being.
  • The Brundtland Report (1987) defines sustainability as development that meets the needs of the present without compromising future generations' needs.
  • Plociennik (2014) emphasizes the responsible use of resources in economic models.
  • Environmental sustainability focuses on natural resources, ecosystem integrity, and carrying capacity. Human needs shouldn't surpass the environment's ability to sustain them.
  • Social sustainability focuses on equity, empowerment, accessibility, and cultural identity. Poverty alleviation is a key element.
  • Economic sustainability requires production and consumption systems that don't harm future needs. Traditional economic models often assume unlimited resources.
  • Economic, social, and environmental factors are interdependent. Sustainable development requires integrating these factors.
  • Development models, like the three overlapping circles model, acknowledge the interconnectedness of economic, environmental, and social factors.
  • Sustainability rests on three conceptual pillars: economic, social, and environmental. These pillars are essential for sustainable development.
  • The U.N. has established 17 development goals including eradicating poverty, inequality, and fostering peace and justice. These goals are interconnected in achieving a sustainable future.
  • Sustainable practices involve reducing consumption, supporting tree-planting, and avoiding single-use plastics. Individuals, governments, and businesses must act to achieve sustainable development.

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