How Relevant Is Sustainable Development To Developing Countries?

The United Nations Head Ban Ki-moon was right when he said, “Sustainable development is the pathway to the future we want for all.” When we look around, we are likely to see various aspects that we can change to make a better world. But sometimes we lack the courage to take a step forward and to be the change we wish to see (quoted by MK Gandhi). Even our older generation is heard saying, “What a wonderful world it was back then! But look at the state that the world is in today. No wonder we are struck by all kinds of calamities.” It is indeed a known fact that if the world continues to persist in the present state, it won’t be long before we come face to face with destruction. Warnings are continuously being reiterated that the present type and levels of development are not sustainable. 

Hence, the need of the hour is sustainable development. Sustainable development simply means that development should take place in a way that does not damage the environment; it also should not compromise with the needs of the future generation and their right to a clean and working environment. It is very relevant to developing countries because they are the ones who can build a better and promising tomorrow. Since they are only going through the procedures of development, it will be quite easy for them to form policies with regard to sustainable development.

Developing countries are faced with the dilemma of how to develop their countries in order to reach the list of developed countries. In my opinion, there is no better method to fulfill this than to practice sustainable development. Many developed countries are trying to reach this goal. But the saying ‘Old habits die hard’ gets in the way and they fail miserably. Since the developing countries are searching for new ways to make themselves developed, they can try a hand at sustainable development. They can set an example and motivate fellow countries to do the same.

Sustainable development can personify itself in different forms in different fields in developing countries:

In the field of agriculture, one can use environment-friendly practices like multiple cropping, mixed farming, crop rotation etc. These methods enhance sustainable development and at the same time are profitable too. In the field of energy, one can utilize tidal energy, ocean thermal energy and wave energy instead of using various sources of energy that can be harmful to the environment.All these come under the category of sustainable development and are only a few of the million ways by which one contribute to the pleasant future of the environment.

Developing countries can play a major role in determining the future of the world by practicing sustainable development because our futures are linked together. Personally, my suggestion is that all the developing countries must join hands together and strive to make a better environment. And the most appropriate option for this is to exercise sustainable development.