What Is Sustainable Development?
Sustainable development here, sustainable development there… Let’s face it: the business world always talks about this expression. But do we really know what it is? At a time when problems are piling up in this field (and not only in terms of ecology), it is crucial to understand this notion properly. This is all the more so when companies are in a position to contribute considerably to this necessary transition.
But what is sustainable development? What are its objectives? How do we implement a sustainable development approach within a given organization? What are the three pillars of sustainable development to be aware of before getting started?
The answers are in this article.
What is sustainable development?
The term sustainable development refers to a development model that meets the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own. Sustainable development means economically efficient, environmentally sustainable, and socially equitable development.
How did the concept of sustainable development come about?
Relatively unknown to civil society until the second half of the 20th century, the concept of sustainable development gradually spread following the multiplication of economic and ecological crises that punctuate the news: oil shocks, nuclear incidents, oil spills … The list is long.
Little by little, the same civil society was also made aware of the first notable changes in the climate or the environment (disappearance of biodiversity, problems related to the ozone layer, etc.).
At the dawn of the 21st century, the conclusion is clear: the model of society developed by human beings is not sustainable. Faced with the depletion of natural resources and the major changes brought about by global warming, the ability of future generations to meet their needs is threatened.
What are the three pillars of sustainable development?
The concept of sustainable development is closely linked to that of corporate social responsibility.
In a very prosaic way, the term “development” actually encompasses everything related to improving the performance of a given organization or company – economic as well as social or environmental performance. On the other hand, the term “sustainable” reflects the idea that these performances must be sustained to be relevant.
The social pillar
The social pillar of sustainable development refers to the notions of equity and respect for individual rights.
Its principles are the following:
– the fight against exclusion and discrimination (supporting reintegration, respecting gender equality, leveling salaries, encouraging training, promoting dialogue, etc.);
– solidarity (contributing to the reduction of social inequalities by collaborating with associations, supporting local and international projects, favoring fair trade products, etc.);
– the well-being of stakeholders (developing social dialogue, encouraging the exchange of information and transparency, adapting working hours to the profile of employees, adapting premises to accommodate people with reduced mobility, etc.).
In the context of a company, acting in favor of sustainable development, therefore, amounts – in part – to maximizing the well-being of its employees and improving health at work.
The economic pillar
The economic pillar of sustainable development refers to the notions of efficiency and prosperity.
It embodies the ability of a company to contribute to a responsible economy. In other words, it is a question of managing to ensure the production necessary for existing needs – not more – while limiting the risks that this production induces for the planet and the whole of society. The population’s health must not be put at risk, for example.
Again, the idea is to meet present needs without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs.
The key? Not just thinking about the present. A company’s duty to the society in which it operates is to focus on developing a long-term strategy.
Contrary to popular belief, subscribing to such logic does not necessarily mean making a 180° turn in one’s activity. Conscientiously ensuring the recycling of one’s products, for example, is a great way to help ensure a prosperous future for future generations. In this context, however, the use of renewable raw materials will be an undeniable asset to preserve the environment.
The environmental pillar
The environmental pillar refers to the notions of responsibility and conservation.
It is based mainly on the desire to preserve our environment and our planet from the damage caused by pollution, overconsumption, and resource depletion.
Its principles are as follows:
– to measure the environmental impact of our companies’ activities;
– sustainably reducing and offsetting greenhouse gas emissions responsible for climate change;
– saving and preserving natural resources by developing the use of renewable energies, among others;
– etc.
Hope this post has provided you with the information you were looking for. Remember to jot down a few words in the comments below.