Development, no doubt, is very important for any nation. But development which comes at the cost of the environment and at the cost of future generations is not acceptable. The concept of sustainable development was emphasized by the United Nations Conference on Environment and Development (UNCED), which defined it as: ‘Development that meets the need of the present generation without compromising the ability of the future generation to meet their own needs. There are many ways to achieve sustainable development. These are – using non-conventional resources, use of gobar gas in rural areas and CNG in urban areas, mini-hydel plants, bio composting, and traditional practices. Nations over the world have started realizing the importance of sustainable development. This led to conferences, conventions, agreements, and partnerships between countries. Recently, the UN Secretary-General on 4 May 2022 released a report on sustainable development recognizing COVID-19 as a “human tragedy,” resulting in more than six million deaths globally and recommending that countries fully implement the Sustainable Development Goals. Sustainable development is as much about health, education, and jobs as the ecosystem. UNDP and its reports have promoted such approaches to measure human progress.

Read the following statements about sustainable development carefully.
Statement 1: Sustainable Development transforms impoverished people and communities into productive, educated and healthy societies.
Statement 2: Sustainable Development advocates wealth creation in a manner that generates socio-economic opportunity and equality.

Both the statements are true.

The correct answer is Option 1: Both the statements are true.

Sustainable development is a holistic approach to development that aims to meet the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs. It focuses on economic growth, social development, and environmental protection.

 Statement 1: This statement accurately reflects the goal of sustainable development to transform impoverished communities into productive, educated, and healthy societies. Sustainable development seeks to alleviate poverty and improve the quality of life for all people.

Statement 2: This statement is also true. Sustainable development advocates for economic growth that is inclusive and equitable, generating opportunities for all and reducing inequality. It emphasizes the importance of creating wealth in a way that benefits both present and future generations.