Why is the issue of sustainability important for development ? Explain with examples.
Generated by claude-sonnet-4-6 · 2026-06-15 06:56 · grounding rag
Model Answer
Sustainability is important for development because it ensures that the present level of development can be maintained for future generations without exhausting natural resources.
Examples:
- Groundwater (Renewable resource): About 300 districts in India have reported a water level decline of over 4 metres in 20 years. Nearly one-third of the country is already overusing groundwater. If this continues, 60% of the country will face this problem in 25 years, threatening future agricultural and urban needs.
- Crude Oil (Non-renewable resource): World crude oil reserves will last only about 47 years at the current rate of extraction. Once exhausted, they cannot be replenished, which will severely hamper future development.
Thus, unsustainable use of resources today puts future generations at risk.
Source: Chapter 1 — Sustainability of Development
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Explanation
- Examiners expect definition of sustainability + at least two examples (one renewable, one non-renewable is ideal) for full 3 marks.
- Always link the example back to the point: why it threatens future development.
- The two textbook examples — groundwater and crude oil — are the safest choices to use here.
- Avoid writing a general essay; keep it focused and point-based within the word limit.