Questions and Answers
Sustainability focuses only on environmental aspects.
False
The Brundtland Report introduced sustainability as a concept to the global agenda.
True
Sustainable development compromises the ability of future generations to meet their needs.
False
Healthy ecosystems are crucial for sustaining economic prosperity and societal wellbeing.
Signup and view all the answers
A sustainable economy can deplete natural resources without causing harm to the environment.
Signup and view all the answers
Overfishing initially provides economic benefits but can harm fish populations in the long term.
Signup and view all the answers
Sustainability is a static concept that does not evolve over time.
Signup and view all the answers
The economy is stronger when it is independent of environmental conditions.
Signup and view all the answers
Fisheries closing can lead to job losses and increased seafood prices.
Signup and view all the answers
The Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) do not address issues related to climate change.
Signup and view all the answers
The SDGs cover a range of topics including poverty and gender equality.
Signup and view all the answers
The wedding cake view of the SDGs suggests that all goals are disconnected.
Signup and view all the answers
One goal suffering will have no impact on the other interconnected SDGs.
Signup and view all the answers
SDG 12 focuses on increasing consumption without responsibility.
Signup and view all the answers
Achieving a sustainable society requires eliminating disparities and ensuring equitable opportunities.
Signup and view all the answers
The 2030 agenda for Sustainable Development has no binding commitments from countries.
Signup and view all the answers
Study Notes
Definition of Sustainability
- Sustainability is a dynamic and evolving concept, not merely a state of balance.
- It integrates environmental, social, and economic factors, necessitating their simultaneous attention for long-term success.
- Transformational change is required to steer the world toward sustainability, beyond minor adjustments.
- The Brundtland Report of 1987 first introduced sustainability on the global agenda, emphasizing interconnection between economic growth and environmental preservation.
Three Dimensions of Sustainability
-
Environmental Aspect
- Encompasses sustainable development goals (SDG) 6, 13, 14, and 15.
- Healthy ecosystems are essential for life-supporting goods and services such as pollination, water purification, and climate regulation.
- Economic prosperity and societal wellbeing depend on maintaining ecosystem health.
-
Economy
- Related to SDGs 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 7, 11, 16, and 17.
- Sustainable economies rely on responsible production and consumption without depleting natural resources or causing environmental harm.
- Example: Overfishing leads to short-term profit but jeopardizes long-term marine health and can disrupt entire industries including tourism.
-
Society
- Associated with SDGs 8, 9, 10, and 12.
- Emphasizes equity and opportunity across generations rather than just meeting immediate basic needs.
- Societies experiencing disparities and injustices are more likely to face instability, conflict, and crises.
- A sustainable society enhances resilience and ensures equitable access to opportunities.
Interconnectedness of Dimensions
- Each dimension—environmental, economic, and social—interacts with and influences the others.
- Positive changes in one dimension often lead to improvements in others, while challenges in one can strain the entire system.
Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
- In 2015, 190 countries committed to the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, aiming for transformational steps for a sustainable future.
- The 17 SDGs cover a range of critical issues: poverty eradication, hunger elimination, inequality reduction, climate action, and ecosystem protection.
- The SDGs are interconnected and should be viewed in a holistic manner, reminiscent of a "wedding cake" structure.
Layers of the SDGs
-
Environment Layer
- SDG 6: Clean Water and Sanitation
- SDG 13: Climate Action
- SDG 14: Life Below Water
- SDG 15: Life on Land
-
Society Layer
- SDG 1: No Poverty
- SDG 2: Zero Hunger
- SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being
- SDG 4: Quality Education
- SDG 5: Gender Equality
- SDG 7: Affordable Clean Energy
- SDG 11: Sustainable Cities
- SDG 16: Peace and Justice
- SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals
-
Economy Layer
- SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth
- SDG 9: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure
- SDG 10: Reduced Inequalities
- SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production
Studying That Suits You
Use AI to generate personalized quizzes and flashcards to suit your learning preferences.
Description
Explore the dynamic and evolving concept of sustainability, which integrates environmental, social, and economic factors. This quiz delves into the transformative changes needed to achieve long-term sustainability, referencing important definitions like that from the 1987 US Brundtland Report. Gain insights into the interconnectedness of sustainability and its implications for our future.