Sus Dev introduction Unit Three Mexico December 2024 as posted - Tagged

Quote

• Margaret Mead: "Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful committed citizens can change the world. Indeed, it is the only thing that ever has."

• Image Credit: Victor Cauduro Rojas associated with Victor Cauduro's official website.

Introduction to Sustainability and Sustainable Development

Key Topics Covered in the Presentation

• Definition of Sustainability: Understanding sustainability as a concept that integrates ecological preservation, economic development, and social equity.

• Global Reporting Initiative (GRI):

  • A framework designed to help large businesses report on their sustainability practices.

  • Although widely used, it is often considered a weak tool for authentic sustainability claims due to its lack of rigorous enforcement.

• Upcoming Content: Future videos will explore grassroots tools for sustainability and the role of B Corporations, which are for-profit companies certified for meeting high standards of social and environmental performance, accountability, and transparency.

Learning Community Goals

• Objective: To establish common definitions and foundational information about sustainability and sustainable development.

• Collaboration: Encourage contributions from each participant to create a more inclusive and diverse understanding of sustainability.

Defining Sustainable Development

• Brundlandt Report Definition (1987):

  • Defines sustainable development as "development that meets the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs."

  • This definition is foundational for understanding the principles of sustainable development and is important for students to memorize in preparation for Quiz #1.

Perspective from Indigenous Peoples

• The Great Law of the Iroquois:

  • A guiding principle stating, "In our every deliberation, we must consider the impact of our decisions on the next seven generations."

  • This emphasizes the importance of long-term thinking and responsibility towards future generations.

• Source: The Constitution of the Iroquois Nations: Gayanashagowa from the Iroquois Democracy Site (Accessed Nov. 9, 2009).

The Triple Bottom Line

• Components of Sustainable Development:

  • Economy: Focuses on economic viability and prosperity.

  • Environmental: Looks at ecological health and the sustainable use of resources.

  • Social Equity: Promotes fair distribution of resources and opportunities, ensuring all communities have access to necessary services and benefits.

Terminology

• Emphasis on using consistent terminology within discussions to promote clarity and understanding among participants.