What is sustainable development?

• A. Development that meets the needs of the present without compromising future generations.
• B. Development prioritizing immediate gains.
• C. Development that ignores environmental considerations.
• D. Development that relies entirely on aid.

Answer: (A)

The main idea is balance: development that advances present needs while preserving the ability of future generations to meet theirs. The statement described captures this balance precisely, reflecting the widely accepted definition that development should not deplete resources or harm the environment in ways that would hinder future prosperity. It embodies intergenerational equity and the idea of stewarding natural capital—using resources in a way that allows them to renew and remain available for future people, alongside improving economic and social well-being.

This approach also aligns with the broader view that sustainable development integrates economic growth with social inclusion and environmental protection. The other descriptions miss that balance: prioritizing only immediate gains ignores long-term costs and resource limits; ignoring environmental considerations sacrifices future viability for short-term profits; and relying entirely on aid doesn’t address building durable capacity or sustainable practices.