In June 1992, in the first Earth Summit, organized by the United Nations, the concept of sustainable developmentIt was a historic event in which 170 heads of state and government signed a program of actions for the XXI century: the 21 Agenda, a key document that sets out the objectives towards a more balanced development. This meeting laid the foundations for a global commitment to sustainability, a goal that affects all sectors of society.
El sustainable development is a term whose basic definition lies in the ability to meet our needs without compromising the well-being of future generations. This implies a respectful relationship with the natural resources and proper planning to planetary scaleThe concept is crucial because it addresses how present decisions have a direct impact on those to come.
This concept reveals a deep interconnection of global problems that affect the interaction of human societies within their natural environment, covering topics such as human development, the environment, the economy, and solidarity. As Anne-Marie Sacquet explains in her 'World Atlas of Sustainable Development', sustainability is not only an economic and ecological model, but also an eminently social one.
The pillars of sustainable development
El sustainable development is based on four fundamental pillars: the social, environmental, economic and cultural pillars. Each of these pillars plays a key role in the way we manage resources:
- El social pillar guarantees access to basic needs such as water, food, education and health services, seeking to eliminate social inequality and improve the quality of life for all regardless of their economic status.
- El environmental pillar focuses on preserving and enhancing natural resources to ensure that the planet maintains its capacity to sustain life. This involves reducing pollutants, mitigating climate change and protecting biodiversity.
- El economic pillar seeks a growth model that does not compromise natural resources, generating wealth without damaging the environment, and ensuring that activities are economically viable in the long term.
- El cultural pillarLess well-known but equally important, it preserves cultural diversity, ensuring that traditions, customs and knowledge are passed on from generation to generation.
The relationship between economy and sustainable development
One of the great challenges of sustainable development is to balance economic growth with environmental protection. The traditional economy has historically been based on the intensive exploitation of natural resources, without taking into account their limits. Brundtland report, which laid the foundations for the concept of sustainable development, highlighted the environmental consequences that unregulated economic growth could lead to, such as deforestation, the contamination and biodiversity loss.
This report marked a turning point in the global perception of economic growth. The need for a sustainable growth, based on the use of clean technologies and the promotion of industries that reduce their ecological footprint.
Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
The 2030 Agenda, approved in 2015 by the United Nations, gave way to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDG). There are 17 global goals that seek to eradicate poverty, protect the planet and ensure prosperity for all. These 17 objectives cover major challenges that affect humanity: from the end of poverty to climate actionIts implementation requires the collaboration of governments, companies and citizens around the world.
The 17 Sustainable Development Goals
- End of poverty: Eradicate hunger and extreme poverty.
- Zero hunger: End malnutrition and promote sustainable agricultural practices.
- Health & Wellness: Ensure healthy lives and promote well-being for all.
- Quality education: Ensure equitable and quality education.
- Gender equality: Empowering women and girls.
- Clean water and sanitation: Ensure the availability of water and its sustainable management.
- Affordable and non-polluting energy: Ensure access to clean and sustainable energy.
- Decent work and economic growth: Promote sustained, inclusive and sustainable economic growth.
- Industry, innovation and infrastructure: Promote inclusive and sustainable industrialization.
- Reduction of inequalities: Reduce inequality within and between countries.
- Sustainable cities and communities: Making cities safe, inclusive, resilient and sustainable.
- Responsible production and consumption: Ensure sustainable consumption and production patterns.
- climate action: Take urgent action to combat climate change.
- Submarine life: Conserve and use the oceans and seas sustainably.
- Life of terrestrial ecosystems: Protect, restore and promote the sustainable use of terrestrial ecosystems.
- Peace, justice and strong institutions: Promote peaceful, inclusive and just societies.
- Alliances to achieve the objectives: Strengthen the means of implementation and revitalize the global partnership for sustainable development.
The importance of sustainability in a changing world
Sustainable development is not simply an option, but a necessity in a constantly changing world. Human activities have had a profound impact on the planet, and if we do not act now, the damage could be irreversible. Examples such as the climate change and species extinction They remind us that the Earth's resources are finite.
Invest in sustainable solutions not only mitigates environmental problems, but opens up economic opportunities. The renewable energy sector renewable energy It is a clear example of how a balance between economy and sustainability is possible. Reducing greenhouse gas emissions and developing new energy technologies are also essential to combat global warming.
Sustainable development invites us to reflect on our role in the world and how our choices today affect tomorrow. Future generations deserve a world full of opportunities and resources. We must work together, at all levels of society, to ensure that our planet remains habitable for all.