Sustainable Development Theory - 6.2.4 | Unit 6: Development and Globalization | IB Board Grade 12 – Individuals and Societies
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Interactive Audio Lesson

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Introduction to Sustainable Development Theory

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Teacher
Teacher

Welcome, everyone! Today we'll discuss Sustainable Development Theory. This theory emphasizes a balance between economic growth and sustainable practices. Can anyone tell me why this balance is important?

Student 1
Student 1

I guess because without it, we might harm our environment?

Teacher
Teacher

Exactly! Economic advancement should not come at the expense of our planet. We focus on using renewable resources as a key component.

Student 2
Student 2

What do you mean by renewable resources?

Teacher
Teacher

Great question! Renewable resources are those that can be replenished naturally, like solar and wind energy. Who can think of an example where renewable resources are successfully used?

Student 3
Student 3

I think some countries use a lot of solar panels?

Teacher
Teacher

Yes! Countries like Germany and Spain harness solar energy. To recap, sustainable development integrates economic growth with environmental care. This approach is vital for the wellbeing of future generations.

Historical Context of Sustainable Development

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Teacher
Teacher

Now, let's delve into how Sustainable Development Theory came to be. The Brundtland Report in 1987 was a key moment. Who can summarize why this report was important?

Student 4
Student 4

It defined sustainable development and highlighted the need to meet current needs without harming the future.

Teacher
Teacher

Exactly! The report was crucial in framing global conversations on development. Can anyone think of a challenge faced when trying to implement these ideas?

Student 1
Student 1

Maybe people resist change because it costs more initially?

Teacher
Teacher

That's a key obstacle! Balancing immediate economic concerns with long-term environmental goals is complex. Remember, this theory encourages inclusive growth; it’s about everyone benefiting.

Student 2
Student 2

So it’s important for equity, too!

Teacher
Teacher

Right! Sustainable development includes social equity, which can lead to a more stable society overall. Let’s summarize: the theory originated from the Brundtland Report, emphasizing a balanced approach to growth, environment, and equity.

Key Principles of Sustainable Development

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Teacher
Teacher

Moving forward, let’s identify the key principles of Sustainable Development. Can anyone name a principle that guides this theory?

Student 3
Student 3

I think it focuses on poverty alleviation?

Teacher
Teacher

Correct! Reducing poverty is crucial so that everyone has access to basic needs. Another principle is inclusivity—any thoughts on why this matters?

Student 4
Student 4

Because if everyone isn’t included, some people might get left behind?

Teacher
Teacher

Absolutely! Inclusive growth ensures that economic benefits reach all social segments. Remember: the goal is to create a stable environment enriched with opportunities for future generations.

Introduction & Overview

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Quick Overview

Sustainable Development Theory emphasizes balancing economic growth, environmental protection, and social equity, aiming to meet present needs without compromising future generations.

Standard

Sustainable Development Theory advocates for an integrated approach where economic growth is aligned with environmental sustainability and social equity. Initially popularized by the Brundtland Report, it calls for renewable resource use, poverty alleviation, and inclusive growth to ensure that future generations can also meet their needs.

Detailed

Sustainable Development Theory

Sustainable Development Theory seeks to address the critical balance needed between economic growth, environmental conservation, and social equity. Popularized by the Brundtland Report in 1987, sustainable development is defined as meeting 'the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs.' This theory emphasizes that without integrating economic advancements with environmental stewardship and social inclusivity, efforts to improve economic stability could lead to greater environmental degradation and social disparity. It advocates for renewable resource use, strategies for poverty alleviation, and growth that is inclusive of all social segments, underscoring its importance in present and future development frameworks.

Audio Book

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Definition of Sustainable Development

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Sustainable Development Theory focuses on balancing economic growth with environmental protection and social equity.

Detailed Explanation

Sustainable Development Theory aims to find a harmonious balance between three main aspects: economic growth, environmental protection, and social equity. This means that when countries pursue economic progress, they must also consider how their actions affect the environment and ensure that all segments of society benefit fairly from development. It's about making sure that today's needs are met without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs.

Examples & Analogies

Imagine a garden. If you only focus on growing as many plants as possible (economic growth) without caring for the soil (environmental protection) or making sure the plants have enough space to grow (social equity), your garden might thrive for a while but eventually could become unsustainable and fail. Sustainable development is like tending to the garden in a way that nurtures the soil, ensures each plant gets sunlight, and allows your garden to flourish for years to come.

The Brundtland Report

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Popularized by the Brundtland Report (1987), defining sustainable development as meeting "the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs."

Detailed Explanation

The Brundtland Report, published in 1987 by the World Commission on Environment and Development, highlighted the importance of sustainable development. It introduced a clear definition: sustainable development should meet the current generation's needs without jeopardizing future generations' capabilities to meet their needs. This concept emphasizes that resources should be used wisely and responsibly so that future people can also benefit from them. It advocates for a long-term view of development that considers ecological, economic, and social factors.

Examples & Analogies

Think of sustainable development like using a bank. If you keep withdrawing money without putting any back, eventually you'll run out of funds. But if you invest wisely and only take out what you need, you ensure that your investments grow, allowing you to enjoy the benefits long into the future. Likewise, sustainable development encourages us to use resources responsibly so that both we and future generations can thrive.

Principles of Sustainable Development

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Calls for renewable resource use, poverty alleviation, and inclusive growth.

Detailed Explanation

Sustainable Development Theory advocates for the usage of renewable resources, which can be replenished naturally, such as solar or wind energy. It also emphasizes poverty alleviation, suggesting that economic progress should lift all individuals out of poverty, not just a select few. Moreover, inclusive growth means that development must be equitable; everyone, regardless of their background, should have opportunities to benefit from economic progress. These principles guide policymakers and stakeholders to create strategies that foster sustainability.

Examples & Analogies

Consider a community that decides to build a wind farm. By choosing renewable energy (like wind), they reduce dependence on fossil fuels, which helps the environment. The project creates jobs that lift people out of poverty, and it establishes a system where everyone in the community benefits—like lowering energy costs for all families. This community embodies the principles of sustainable development by ensuring that their decisions positively impact both current and future residents.

Definitions & Key Concepts

Learn essential terms and foundational ideas that form the basis of the topic.

Key Concepts

  • Sustainable Development: A balanced approach to developing society that aims to meet current needs without compromising future generations.

  • Brundtland Report: An influential document that defined the principles of sustainable development.

  • Renewable Resources: Essential for sustainable development, renewable resources can be replenished naturally and help reduce environmental impact.

  • Inclusivity: Essential for equitable development, inclusivity ensures that economic benefits reach all social classes.

Examples & Real-Life Applications

See how the concepts apply in real-world scenarios to understand their practical implications.

Examples

  • The use of wind farms in Denmark that provide sustainable energy and create jobs.

  • The implementation of solar energy programs in developing nations to promote economic growth while addressing energy needs.

Memory Aids

Use mnemonics, acronyms, or visual cues to help remember key information more easily.

🎵 Rhymes Time

  • Sustain the earth, for future's worth, protect the land and the water's dearth.

📖 Fascinating Stories

  • Imagine a village where the children play, the trees are lush, and skies are gray. They learn to use the sun and wind, ensuring that the future is where their joy begins.

🧠 Other Memory Gems

  • R.E.E.L: Resources, Environment, Equity, Lifestyle - for Sustainable Development.

🎯 Super Acronyms

S.E.E. - Sustainability, Environment, Equity.

Flash Cards

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Glossary of Terms

Review the Definitions for terms.

  • Term: Sustainable Development

    Definition:

    Development that meets present needs without compromising future generations' ability to meet their own needs.

  • Term: Brundtland Report

    Definition:

    A pivotal document from the 1987 UN World Commission on Environment and Development outlining sustainable development.

  • Term: Renewable Resources

    Definition:

    Natural resources that can be replenished naturally, like solar and wind energy.

  • Term: Inclusivity

    Definition:

    Ensuring that all individuals, regardless of background, have access to equal opportunities and resources.