Sustainable Development

Introduction

What is Sustainable Development?
The right to development implies the right to improvement and advancement of economic, social, cultural and political conditions. Improvement of global quality of life means the implementation of change that ensures every person a life of dignity; or life in a society that respects and helps realize all human rights. These changes must include the eradication and alleviation of widespread conditions of poverty, unemployment, and inequitable social conditions. Sustainable development ensures the well-being of the human person by integrating social development, economic development, and environmental conservation and protection.

Social development implies that the basic needs of the human being are met through the implementation and realization of human rights. Basic needs include access to education, health services, food, housing, employment, and the fair distribution of income. Social development promotes democracy to bring about the participation of the public in determining policy, as well as creating an environment for accountable governance. Social development works to empower the poor to expand their use of available resources in order meet their own needs, and change their own lives. Special attention is paid to ensure equitable treatment of women, children, people of indigenous cultures, people with disabilities, and all members of populations considered most vulnerable to the conditions of poverty.

Economic development expands the availability of work and the ability of individuals to secure an income to support themselves and their families. Economic development includes industry, sustainable agriculture, as well as integration and full participation in the global economy. Social and economic developments reinforce and are dependent on one another for full realization.

It is impossible to separate the well-being of the human person from the well-being of the earth. Therefore truly sustainable development places just as much importance on the protection and of the earth and the earth's resources. International documents that include the environmental aspect of development affirm and reaffirm that "human beings are at the centre of concern for sustainable development. They are entitled to a healthy and productive life in harmony with nature…". As the goal of sustainable development is to permanently improve the living conditions of human beings, social and economic developments must be carried out in a way that is environmentally and ecologically sound; ensuring the continual rejuvenation and availability of natural resources for future generations.

Active participation in sustainable development ensures that those who are affected by the changes are the ones determining the changes. The result is the enjoyment and sharing of the benefits and products generated by the change. Participation is not exclusive, ensuring equitable input, self-determination and empowerment of both genders and all races and cultural groups.

Date: 2015-01-11; view: 944