The three pillars of sustainable development

Published on : 22 May 20202 min reading time

Beware of preconceived ideas: sustainable development cannot be reduced to environmental protection!

Indeed, sustainable development is based on three pillars, three interdependent components:

  • The environmental dimension
  • The social dimension
  • The economic dimension

Official international definition in 1987

The 1987 Brundtland report defined sustainable development as “development that meets the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs.”

Sustainable development must be economically efficient, socially equitable and environmentally tolerable. The social must be an objective, the economy a means and the environment a condition.

Development is “sustainable” if it is designed in such a way as to ensure that its benefits will continue to be enjoyed by future generations.

The environmental dimension

To preserve, improve and develop the environment and natural resources over the long term, maintaining the major ecological balances, reducing risks and preventing environmental impacts.

The social dimension

Satisfy human needs and meet the objective of social equity, promoting the participation of all social groups in matters of health, housing, consumption, education, employment, culture, etc.

The economic dimension

Developing growth and economic efficiency through sustainable production and consumption patterns.

Why is sustainable development so important?

It is a new approach to the general interest aimed at ensuring the sustainability of our societies, our ecosystem, our economy…
It is also a unique opportunity to rethink our models. It’s a lever for innovation!

What are its aims?

  • The fight against climate change and protection of the atmosphere
  • The preservation of biodiversity, environments and resources
  • Social cohesion and solidarity between territories and between generations
  • The development of all human beings
  • A development dynamic based on responsible production and consumption patterns.

Each goal is cross-cutting to social, environmental and economic issues, the pillars of sustainable development.

Making the Right Choices in Sustainable Energy Management
Overview of the challenges of the 3 pillars of sustainable development

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