Sustainability
The major focus in all four themes is sustainability. There are many definitions of sustainability. Two well-known ones are:
1. The Brundtland Commission stated it is 'Development which fulfils the needs of the present generation without jeopardising the possibilities of future generations to fulfil their needs.'
2. The Countryside Commission have expended it to 'Sustainable development means meeting four objectives, at the same, in the UK and in the world as a whole. These are:
-
Society - social progress which recognises the needs of everyone;
-
Environment - effective protection of the environment;
-
Futurity - prudent use of natural resources; and
-
Economy - maintenance of high and stable levels of economic growth and employment.'
On a local, national, regional and global scale sustainability is implemented via:-
Agenda 21 (of the Earth Summits) - the main ideas include:
-
People are entitled to a healthy and productive life in harmony with nature;
-
Eradicating poverty and reducing disparities in living standards are essential to achieve sustainable development and to meet the needs of the majority of people;
-
Nations shall co-operate to conserve and restore the health of the global ecosystem;
-
Environmental issues are best handled with the participation of all concerned citizens. Nations shall encourage awareness of these issues by making environmental information widely available;
-
The participation of women and young people is essential to achieve sustainable development. Nations should encourage and support the identity, culture and interests of indigenous people;
-
Peace, development and environmental protection are interdependent and indivisible.