SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT ESSAY

Sustainable development has been

a central framework in international environmental politics for decades, aiming to balance economic growth, social equity, and environmental protection. However, it’s effectiveness has remained widely debated

sources used in this essay

McMichael (2016) and (Robbins 2019)

McMichael (2016)

highlights how global capitalism, which drives unsustainable resource consumption, directly conflicts with sustainability goals.

what reasons or conditions have led to its inability to (as yet) be realized on a global scale

environmental degradation has continued despite international agreements, showing the limits of voluntary commitments and market-driven solutions. Structural inequalities between developed and developing nations also make universal implementation difficult, as wealthier countries often outsource environmental harm to poorer regions.

consider whether an alternative approach is necessary to address the global environmental problems we face

alternative approach may be needed—one that moves beyond green capitalism toward systemic change

robbins (2009)

suggests ideas such as degrowth, which promotes reduced consumption and localized economies, or political ecology perspectives which emphasize justice and power dynamics in environmental policy, offer possible pathways forward

conclusion

While sustainable development has shaped global discourse, its practical shortcomings suggest the need for stronger, more transformative solutions to address the world’s environmental crises.