Sustainable development refers to the economic growth that meets the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs. It involves a balanced approach to economic progress, environmental protection, and social equity.
Think of sustainable development like a three-legged stool. One leg represents economic growth, another represents environmental protection, and the third represents social equity. If one leg is shorter than the others, the stool will be unstable and fall over. Similarly, for sustainable development to work effectively all three aspects need to be equally addressed.
Economic Growth: This refers to an increase in a country's production or output of goods and services.
Environmental Protection: This involves safeguarding our natural resources and preserving biodiversity for future generations.
Social Equity: This means fair access to livelihood, education, health which includes physical and psychological wellbeing as well as ensuring individual rights are respected.
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