Sustainable Development
What is sustainable development?
- a resolution to meet the needs of the present without compromising the future
- a vision that encompasses populations, animal and plant species, ecosystems, natural resources – water, air, energy
- an endeavour to integrate concerns such as the fight against poverty, gender equality, human rights, education for all, health, human security, intercultural dialogue etc.
UNESCO's key actions for sustainable development:
Changing minds, not the climate
Climate change is one of the defining issues of our time. Over 30 UNESCO programmes in the sciences, education, culture and communication contribute to creating knowledge, educating and communicating about climate change, and to understanding the ethical implications for present and future generations.
History of UNESCO and Sustainable Development
UNESCO (United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization) has a long history of promoting sustainable development. The organization was founded in 1945 with the aim of promoting peace and security through international cooperation in education, science, and culture. Over the years, 91Â鶹¹ú²ú¾«Æ·×ÔÅÄ expanded its focus to include sustainable development as a key area of work.
In the 1980s and 1990s, UNESCO began to play a major role in promoting sustainable development through its programs and initiatives. This was largely in response to growing concerns about environmental degradation and the need for more sustainable forms of development. In 1987, UNESCO launched the Man and the Biosphere (MAB) program, which aimed to promote sustainable development and the conservation of biodiversity.
In the 1990s, UNESCO also played a leading role in promoting education for sustainable development (ESD). The organization developed the Global Action Programme (GAP) on ESD, which aimed to integrate sustainable development into education systems around the world.
UNESCO continued to promote sustainable development in the 21st century, including through its work on water, biodiversity, and sustainable tourism. The organization also played a key role in the development of the United Nations' 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Overall, UNESCO's history of promoting sustainable development reflects its commitment to using education, science, and culture to address global environmental, social, and economic challenges. The organization continues to work towards a more sustainable future through its programs and initiatives, which aim to support the integration of sustainable development goals into various fields and sectors.
