Why is sustainable development essential ? Explain with examples.
Generated by claude-sonnet-4-6 · 2026-06-15 06:53 · grounding rag
Model Answer
Sustainable development is essential because the present levels of development are depleting natural resources at a rate that cannot be sustained for future generations.
Examples:
- Groundwater: 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 reserves. If this continues, 60% of India would face the same crisis in 25 years.
- Crude Oil: World crude oil reserves will last only about 47 years at the current rate of extraction. Being a non-renewable resource, it cannot be replenished once exhausted.
Thus, development must meet present needs without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs.
Source: Chapter 1 — Sustainability of Development
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Explanation
- Examiners expect a definition-linked reason followed by two specific examples from the textbook — groundwater and crude oil are the standard examples given in the chapter.
- The quote "We have not inherited the world from our forefathers — we have borrowed it from our children" can be used to open or close your answer for extra impact.
- Distinguish between renewable (groundwater — can be overused) and non-renewable (crude oil — finite stock) resources briefly, as the chapter does.
- Avoid vague statements like "it is good for the environment" — use data from the textbook (300 districts, 47 years) to score full marks.