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ACCA Applied Knowledge · Business and Technology · Environmental and sustainability factors

Which statement best reflects the widely cited Brundtland Commission definition of sustainable development?

Sustainable development is development that meets the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs. It balances current economic and social needs with long-term protection of resources, rather than stopping growth or focusing on short-term profit.

  1. ADevelopment that meets the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needsCorrect
  2. BDevelopment that maximises short-term shareholder returns while complying with environmental law
  3. CDevelopment that restricts all economic growth to protect natural resources
  4. DDevelopment that prioritises the needs of developing countries over those of developed countries

Explanation

The Brundtland definition links present needs with the needs of future generations. It does not call for halting growth, nor does it focus on shareholder returns or favour one group of countries.

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