SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT

DEFINITION OF SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT

Sustainable development is a concept that aims to meet the needs of the present without compromising the ability of
future generations to meet their own needs. It involves balancing economic, social, and environmental considerations
to ensure a more equitable and sustainable future for all. It is an approach to the economic development of a country
without compromising with the quality of the environment for future generations. In the name of economic
development, the price of environmental damage is paid in the form of land degradation, soil erosion, air and water
pollution, deforestation, etc. This damage may surpass the advantages of having more quality output of goods and
services.

DIMENSION OF SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT

Sustainable development, is regarded to have three dimensions: the environmental, economic and social. The idea
is that a good balance between the three dimensions should be achieved. Instead of calling them dimensions, other
terms commonly used are pillars, domains, aspects etc. These dimensions can help countries at different stages of
development discuss and measure progress toward sustainable development .

SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT GOALS

The Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) are a set of 17 global goals established by the United Nations in 2015.
The goals aim to address social, economic, and environmental challenges facing the world. They seek to end
poverty, protect the planet, and ensure prosperity for all by 2030. The 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development
serves as a shared blueprint for peace and prosperity for people and the planet. At its core are the 17 SDGs, which
are an urgent call to action by all countries. The goals recognize that ending poverty and other deprivations must go
hand-in-hand with strategies that improve health and education, reduce inequality, and spur economic growth.
They also address pressing issues such as climate change and the preservation of our oceans and forests.
Here are the 17 SDGs:
No Poverty (SDG 1):
Objective: End poverty in all its forms everywhere.
Importance: Poverty eradication is fundamental for achieving sustainable development. It involves ensuring equal
access to resources, social protection, and economic opportunities.
2. Zero Hunger (SDG 2):
Objective: Achieve food security, improve nutrition, and promote sustainable agriculture.
Importance: Hunger affects millions worldwide. SDG 2 emphasizes sustainable food production, distribution, and
nutrition for all.
3. Good Health and Well-Being (SDG 3):
Objective: Ensure healthy lives and well-being for all at all ages.
Importance: Health is a prerequisite for development. SDG 3 focuses on reducing maternal mortality, combating
diseases, and promoting mental health.
4. Quality Education (SDG 4):
Objective: Ensure inclusive and equitable quality education for all.
Importance: Education empowers individuals and drives progress. SDG 4 aims to provide lifelong learning
opportunities and enhance skills.
5. Gender Equality (SDG 5):
Objective: Achieve gender equality and empower all women and girls.
Importance: Gender disparities persist globally. SDG 5 promotes equal rights, opportunities, and participation.
6. Clean Water and Sanitation (SDG 6):
Objective: Ensure availability and sustainable management of water and sanitation for all.
Importance: Access to clean water is essential for health and well-being. SDG 6 addresses water scarcity, pollution,
and hygiene.
7. Affordable and Clean Energy (SDG 7):
Objective: Promote access to affordable, reliable, and clean energy sources.
Importance: Energy is crucial for development. SDG 7 encourages renewable energy adoption and efficiency.
8. Decent Work and Economic Growth (SDG 8):
Objective: Foster inclusive economic growth, full employment, and decent work.
Importance: Decent jobs drive prosperity. SDG 8 emphasizes fair labor practices, entrepreneurship, and economic
resilience.
9. Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure (SDG 9):
Objective: Build resilient infrastructure, promote sustainable industrialization, and foster innovation.
Importance: Infrastructure and innovation drive economic transformation. SDG 9 supports sustainable development
through technology and infrastructure.
10. Reduced Inequalities (SDG 10):
Objective: Reduce inequalities within and among countries.
Importance: Inequities hinder progress. SDG 10 addresses discrimination, social inclusion, and wealth disparities.
11. Sustainable Cities and Communities (SDG 11):
Objective: Make cities inclusive, safe, resilient, and sustainable.
Importance: Urbanization is increasing. SDG 11 focuses on efficient urban planning, housing, and disaster resilience.
12. Responsible Consumption and Production (SDG 12):
Objective: Ensure sustainable consumption and production patterns.
Importance: Unsustainable consumption harms the environment. SDG 12 encourages resource efficiency and waste
reduction.
13. Climate Action (SDG 13):
Objective: Take urgent action to combat climate change and its impacts.
Importance: Climate change threatens ecosystems and livelihoods. SDG 13 promotes mitigation, adaptation, and
awareness.
14. Life Below Water (SDG 14):
Objective: Conserve and sustainably use marine resources, protect oceans, and coastal ecosystems.
Importance: Oceans are vital for life. SDG 14 addresses overfishing, pollution, and marine conservation.
15. Life on Land (SDG 15):
Objective: Protect, restore, and promote sustainable use of terrestrial ecosystems and halt biodiversity loss.
Importance: Biodiversity loss affects ecosystems. SDG 15 focuses on land restoration, conservation, and combating
desertification.
16. Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions (SDG 16):
Objective: Promote peaceful and inclusive societies, access to justice, and accountable institutions.
Importance: Peace and justice are foundational. SDG 16 aims for effective governance, rule of law, and human rights.
17. Partnerships for the goals (SDG 17):
OBJECTIVE:
IMPORTANCE: SDG 17 aims to strengthen implementation means and global partnerships for sustainable
development through cross-sector collaboration among all countries, with 17 targets to achieve by 2030.

ENVIRONMENT
SAVE ENERGY
Energy conservation involves identifying wastage and taking steps to reduce it. Simple practices can make a
significant impact:
Replace Incandescent Bulbs: Traditional incandescent bulbs consume excessive electricity and generate more
heat than light. Switch to energy-efficient LED or CFL bulbs, which use up to 90% less energy while providing the
same brightness.
Smart Power Strips: Combat “phantom energy” by using smart power strips. These shut off power to electronics
when not in use, saving up to $100 annually per household.
Programmable Thermostats: Install a smart thermostat to regulate heating and cooling efficiently. It could save
you approximately 8% on energy bills.
Energy-Efficient Appliances: When purchasing appliances, consider both the initial cost and the annual operating
cost. Opt for appliances with the Energy Star label.

SAVE WATER
Conserving water is crucial for the environment and our well-being. Here are some tips to save water:
Fix leaks: Regularly check faucets, pipes, and toilets for leaks as even a small leak can waste a significant amount
of water over time.
Take shorter showers: Reducing shower time can help to reduce water consumption.
Collect rainwater: Harvest rainwater for non-potable uses like gardening.
Water plants wisely: Water plants early in the morning or late in the evening to minimize evaporation and use a
watering can instead of a running hose.
Install low-flow fixtures: Low-flow showerheads and faucet aerators can reduce water usage without
compromising water pressure.
Reuse kitchen water: Use wastewater from washing food items to water your plants.
Encourage community efforts: Promote water conservation methods in agriculture and encourage rainwater
harvesting in public spaces.

SAVE ENVIRONMENT
Environmental protection is essential for the well-being of our planet. By taking small steps, we can make a
significant impact. Some ways to help are:
Plant trees: trees are vital to our ecosystem. Consider planting native trees in your yard or supporting tree-
planting initiatives by organizations like the Nature Conservancy or One Tree Planted.
Reduce driving: choose alternate transportation methods that consume less gasoline. Walk, bike, carpool, or use
public transport to minimize your carbon footprint.
Community clean up: volunteer your time to clean up your community. Participate in local environmental
awareness campaigns and advocate for a cleaner environment.
Conserve resources: follow the 3 Rs: reduce, reuse, and recycle. Upcycle items creatively, shop second hand, and
compost scraps. Use energy-efficient appliances and conserve water.
Educate others: spread awareness about environmental issues. Encourage friends and family to adopt eco-
friendly practices.

CLIMATE CONTROL
Controlling climate change requires both global and individual efforts. Here are some key steps to take:
1. Spread Awareness: Encourage others to reduce their carbon footprint by joining global movements like Count
Us In or participating in the UN’s #ActNow campaign.
2. Political Pressure: Lobby local politicians and businesses to support emission reduction efforts. Arrange
meetings with representatives and advocate for climate-friendly policies.
3. Transport Transformation: Support policies that promote the decarbonisation of travel. Consider using public
transport, biking, or walking to reduce your impact.
4. Energy Efficiency: Embrace energy-saving practices like weatherizing doors and windows, using energy-
efficient appliances, and switching to renewable energy sources.
5. Tackle Climate Change: Urgently combat climate change by following Goal 13 of the United Nations
Sustainable Development Agenda. It’s essential to achieving other sustainable development goals.