Sustainable

Development
Lesson 5
- What is it?
Lesson Objectives

→ Recap the values of the Sustainable Development Goals

→ Discuss the 3 pillars of Sustainability
→ Review some case studys on sustainable practices and discuss sturggles in
being sustainable
Starter: Memory Test
→ Can you (from memory – not your
books) look at the 17 logos for the
SDG's and correctly name which
goal this emblem relates to.
What is it to be Sustainable?
→ We have discussed Sustainability
a lot... but what does it mean to
be sustainable?

→ “Sustainability is the ability to

manufacture and produce without
using materials which cannot be
replaced”
Importance of Sustainability

Additionally, sustainable
The Focused efforts on a
does not just include the
move towards
impact on environment
sustainability is necessary With this change we may
but all inside it, with goals
as it is a way of be able to fight against
in place for sustainability
safeguarding the future, the Climate Issues
issues such as food
ensuring that the needs of discussed previously.
production and
today factor in the needs
consumption to end world
of tomorrow.
hunger.
Recap of the Sustainable Development Goals

→ United Nations’ 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) aim to address

global challenges such as poverty, inequality, climate change,
environmental degradation, and peace and justice. Key goals include Zero
Hunger, Good Health and Well-being, Quality Education, Clean Water and
Sanitation, and Affordable and Clean Energy. These goals provide a
universal framework for achieving a better and more sustainable future for
all by 2030.
Raising Awareness of SDG's
→ Awareness of SDGs is vital for their
success. Education and communication
campaigns can help inform and inspire
action among individuals,
communities, and businesses. Schools,
media, and social platforms play a
crucial role in spreading knowledge
about the SDGs. Increased awareness
fosters engagement and encourages
collective efforts toward achieving
these global objectives.
SDG's National Efforts

→ Countries incorporate SDGs into national policies to drive sustainable

development. In the UK, initiatives like the 25-Year Environment Plan and
the Net Zero Strategy align with SDG targets. These policies support
renewable energy projects, conservation efforts, and social equity programs.
National commitment to SDGs enhances economic growth, environmental
protection, and societal well-being.
SDG's International Efforts

→ International cooperation is essential for achieving SDGs. Organizations like

the United Nations, World Bank, and NGOs collaborate to support
sustainable projects globally. Initiatives such as the Paris Agreement and the
Global Partnership for Sustainable Development aim to combat climate
change and foster global development. International efforts ensure that
resources, knowledge, and technologies are shared to address global
challenges effectively.
The 3 Pillars of Sustainability

The economic pillar The social pillar

promotes practices aims to ensure
The environmental
Sustainability is based on that support long- equitable access to
pillar focuses on
three interconnected pillars: term economic resources,
protecting natural
environmental, economic, growth without opportunities, and
resources and
and social. harming the benefits, improving
ecosystems.
environment or quality of life for
society. all.
Environmental Pillar

→ The environmental pillar emphasizes the need to conserve natural resources

and protect ecosystems. Key actions include reducing carbon emissions,
conserving water, minimizing waste, and preserving biodiversity.
Sustainable practices such as renewable energy, eco-friendly products, and
conservation initiatives help mitigate environmental impacts and promote a
healthier planet.
Economic Pillar

→ The economic pillar focuses on creating a resilient economy that supports

sustainable growth. It involves promoting practices that are financially
viable and environmentally responsible. This includes investing in green
technologies, fostering circular economies, and supporting sustainable
agriculture. Economic sustainability ensures that businesses can thrive
without depleting natural resources or harming the environment.
Social Pillar

→ The social pillar aims to improve quality of life for all individuals by
promoting social equity and justice. This involves ensuring access to
education, healthcare, and economic opportunities. Sustainable practices in
this pillar include fair labour practices, community development, and
policies that support marginalized groups. Social sustainability fosters
inclusive and resilient communities.
Societal Impacts of Sustainability

→ Sustainability positively impacts society by promoting health, well-being,

and economic stability. It supports the creation of green jobs, improves
public health through cleaner environments, and enhances community
resilience. Sustainable practices reduce inequalities and ensure that all
members of society can benefit from economic and environmental progress.
National Impact Case Study: UK Green Skills Strategy

→ The UK government has launched several initiatives to enhance green skills

and education as part of its broader sustainability strategy. One such
initiative is the Climate Leaders Award, which aims to equip young people
with the skills necessary for the green economy by 2030. This award is part
of a broader effort to embed sustainability in education, promote green
careers, and ensure that new educational buildings meet net-zero carbon
standards. These measures are expected to have a significant positive
impact on the environment and the economy by fostering a workforce
capable of supporting the UK’s transition to a sustainable future​
Case Study: International Impact of Sustainability

→ The UK has been a pivotal player in international climate agreements, such

as the Paris Agreement. By committing to significant reductions in
greenhouse gas emissions and setting legally binding carbon budgets, the
UK has influenced global climate policy and inspired other nations to adopt
similar measures. This international leadership has not only helped in
mitigating climate change but also positioned the UK as a leader in the
global green economy, attracting investments and fostering international
collaborations in sustainable technologies and practices
Challenges to sustainability

→ Achieving sustainability faces several challenges, including financial

constraints, lack of awareness, and resistance to change. Environmental
degradation, resource depletion, and climate change present significant
hurdles. Overcoming these challenges requires collective action, innovation,
and strong policy frameworks to support sustainable development goals.
Role of Individuals in Sustainability

→ Individuals play a crucial role in promoting sustainability. Simple actions like

reducing waste, conserving energy, and supporting sustainable products
can make a significant impact. Educating oneself and others about
sustainability and participating in community initiatives further supports
global efforts. Collective individual actions contribute to broader societal
change toward sustainability.
Plenary: Continue Poster from Last week

→ Choose 1 of the 17 SDG's and create an informative poster about it.

→ This poster should be colourful for display, and must include:
o The overall aim of this goal & the smaller targets inside of this
o Why this goal is important to sustainability
o How we can help towards this goal

→ This can be hand drawn, or made online with Microsoft/Canva