In 1987, the World Commission for Environment and Development, also referred to as the Brundtland Commission after its president, adopted a definition for sustainable development that is now generally recognized: “Sustainable development satisfies the needs of the present generation without compromising future generations in satisfying theirs.”
Future generations should have the same right to an intact environment that we do. Sustainable development means more than environmental protection, however. Along with the preservation of the ecosphere, economic welfare is a prerequisite for the satisfaction of our material and non-material needs. Only a society based on solidarity is able to distribute the attained economic goods and opportunities fairly, to preserve societal values, and to organize the use of natural resources efficiently and effectively.
Sustainable development therefore refers equally to the three areas of economics, environment, and society. Further central elements are the respect for future generations and solidarity with disadvantaged countries.
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