Essay: The development of and tensions in the idea of sustainable development and SDG2030

Abstract

This essay examines the evolution of sustainable development and the formulation of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDG2030). It traces the historical roots post-WWII, highlighting the tensions between sustainability and economic growth. Key events like the Stockholm Conference (1972), Brundtland Report (1987), and Rio Summit (1992) are discussed, alongside themes such as neoliberalism’s impact and counter-discourses on capability and commons. The essay also covers the transition from Agenda21 and the Millennium Development Goals to the 17 SDGs, emphasizing the need for an analytical framework. Lastly, it addresses the integration of culture, the Anthropocene, environmental humanities, and education in sustainable development.

Keywords

• agenda21
• anthropocene
• capability
• commons
• economic-development
• esd
• mdg
• sdg
• sustainability
• sustainable development