Sustainable development is a goal set by several countries, businesses and governments to improve the world socially, economically and environmentally, it’s essential to develop without having a wider future impact.
The biggest disadvantages of sustainable development are costs, unemployment, difficulty in developing countries and the number of requirements needed in order to maintain sustainable development.
In our guide below, we will discuss what exactly the definition of sustainable development is, what the goals are as well as the advantages and disadvantages of this goal.
What Is Sustainable Development?
Sustainable development is a very broad term and can be applied to many different factors in life, but the proper definition of sustainable development is; Sustainable development is developed to meet the needs of the present, without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs.
Some examples of where sustainable development is needed could be in financial banking, climate change and more, this is to stop and take a sustainable development approach so as we can prevent consequences from damaging future generations.
What Are The Sustainable Development Goals?
To help the world move toward a sustainable lifestyle and reduce the negative impact we are having on future generations, there are global sustainable development goals set to follow.
- Eliminate poverty.
- No hunger.
- High-quality education for all.
- Health and well-being.
- Gender equality.
- Health and sanitation.
- Affordable and clean energy.
- Industry and innovation.
- Work and economic growth.
- Reduce inequalities.
- Sustainable cities.
- Climate action.
- Life below water.
- Peace, justice and strong institutions.
- Responsible consumption.
- Life on land.
Advantages Of Sustainable Development Goals
To preserve the natural environment, improve the future quality of life and have a positive impact on the world, there are many advantages which come from sustainable development goals.
We’ve listed the advantages down below.
- Water and energy saving – The majority of the sustainable development goals lean towards less carbon dioxide emissions and negative consequences on the environment, helping to save water and energy through sustainable policies in the business.
- Helps long-term economic growth – Nature-friendly goals, wise investment and prospects can contribute to long-term economic progress while improving environmental aspects.
- Ensures a better future for other generations – These present sustainable development goals are made to support and help the future generation and the planet.
Disadvantages Of Sustainable Development Goals
Although most of the goals set by the sustainable development agency are to improve the planet and social standards, there are some disadvantages to it too which need to be taken into account.
- Change of mentality – To conserve the environment and transform society’s habits requires a great mental shift which takes time.
- Unemployment – Some industries might have to stop using their usual resources due to the policies which can result in unemployment in some industries.
- Can be a high cost – Changes in habits and production can be very costly for developing countries.
- Fragile commitment – The participation of society and governments is needed for policies to succeed which makes it a fragile commitment.
How To Contribute To Sustainable Development
As an individual company, you might not feel as if you can contribute to sustainable development, but there are many things you can do to spread the word and take action.
We’ve listed some ways to contribute down below.
- Do the $2 a day challenge – In support of the no poverty goal, it might be worth trying to participate in the $2 a day challenge, this helps put yourself into the shoes of others and understand economic development.
- Do paid volunteer days – Why not pay your employees to encourage them to do a volunteer day? Local food banks and soup banks are always in need of volunteers, this helps with the zero hunger policy.
- Reduce, reuse and recycle – Support life on land and life below the water by switching to green reusable bags and switching to a water fountain rather than a vending machine which distributes plastic bottles.
- Sign the WASH pledge – By signing the WASH pledge you are supporting the clean water and sanitation act, this stops the wastage of water and sets responsibility for others.
- Keep a healthy workplace – Consider a health and fitness routine for your workers, keep refreshments and snacks around and prioritise the mental well-being of your staff.
Frequently Asked Questions About The Disadvantages Of Sustainable Development
Is renewable energy part of the sustainable development policies?
Yes, sustainable energy sources such as wind energy, solar energy and hydropower are what healthier societies are meant to be moving towards.
What are some sustainable products to use?
Some examples of sustainable products are; reusable bags, bio-degradable toilet paper, reusable storage bags and sustainable laundry detergent.
What are some sustainability examples?
Some examples of sustainability in real life are; cycling, buying an electric car, going solar, eating local, reducing food waste and stopping the use of single-use plastics.
Which non-renewable resource do people still use?
Some non-renewable popular energy sources to name are coal, natural gas, oil, and nuclear energy. These are often more affordable hence why they are used more often but do have bad environmental impacts.
What are some environmental issues in developing countries?
Some environmental problems could be air quality and renewable energy costs, mentality changes and low-income levels also make it very hard for people in these countries to switch to sustainable products.
Final Words
Overall, sustainable development is very good for the planet and is important for future generations to reduce the impact of economic, social and environmental issues.
The biggest disadvantages to sustainable development are long-term costs, mentality change, unemployment and fragile commitment, making it harder to implement in poorer countries.
Good material . thanks
It’s good explained to developed and sustainable