Chapter 1 · Question 3
How is sustainable development connected with resource use?
Answer
Direct Answer
Sustainable development means using resources to meet present needs without reducing the ability of future generations to meet their needs. It requires careful use of land, water, forests, minerals, and energy so that development does not cause long-term environmental damage or social inequality.
Simple Explanation
Sustainable development balances present needs with future availability by carefully using land, water, forests, minerals, and energy to avoid long-term damage.
Exam-Ready Structure
Sustainable development is directly connected to how we use resources:
• Definition: Sustainable development meets the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs.
• It requires that resource use does not cross the rate at which resources can regenerate.
• Careful use of land prevents degradation from deforestation, overgrazing, and mining.
• Judicious water use avoids depletion of groundwater and pollution of water bodies.
• Forest management balances extraction with regeneration, protecting biodiversity and livelihoods.
• Mineral and fossil fuel use must account for their finite nature — they take millions of years to form.
• Energy use should shift toward renewable sources like solar and wind to reduce pressure on non-renewable resources.
• Sustainable resource use also means that the benefits of development are shared equitably and do not worsen social inequality.
Key Points
- Sustainable development means using resources to meet present needs without reducing the ability of future generations to meet their needs.
- It requires careful use of land, water, forests, minerals, and energy so that development does not cause long-term environmental damage or social inequality.
Answer Sources
- Resource use and sustainable developmenttextbook section | Contemporary India-II | Resources and Development | Sustainable development | Pages 5-6