Sustainable Development (DP IB Environmental Systems & Societies (ESS))

Sustainable Development

• Sustainable development is a concept that aims to balance economic, social, and environmental factors to meet the needs of the present generation without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs

• Examples of sustainable development include:

  • The use of renewable energy sources, such as wind, solar, or hydropower, instead of non-renewable energy sources, such as fossil fuels

  • Sustainable agriculture, which involves using techniques that minimise the negative impact of agriculture on the environment, such as crop rotation, soil conservation, and reduced use of pesticides and fertilisers

  • Sustainable urban planning, which aims to create cities that are more liveable, efficient, and environmentally friendly, such as through the use of public transportation, green spaces (e.g. public parks or green roofs), and energy-efficient buildings to mitigate climate change impacts

• Sustainable development requires a long-term perspective and a commitment to understanding the highly complex interactions between the economic, social, and environmental aspects of our growing and developing societies

• It is an ongoing process that requires the cooperation and involvement of individuals, organisations, and governments at all levels

Environmental, Social and Economic Aspects of Sustainable Development