CONCEPT OF

SUSTAINABILITY…
Sustainability is the ability to develop and exist without depleting natural resources for the
future. Sustainable development is a long-term goal that supports sustainability by implementing
systems, frameworks, and support from local, national, and global entities.

The United Nations defined sustainable development as development that meets the needs of the
present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs.

Sustainability is broken into four distinct areas, known as the four pillars of
sustainability: Human, Social, Economic, Environmental

Sustainability and sustainable development are often used interchangeably. Both speak to the
danger of consuming resources faster than they can be replenished
The concept of sustainable development first appeared 35 years ago.
In 1987, the UN World Commission on Environment and Development presented the report Our
Common Future. Dr. Gro Harlem Brundtland was the Commission’s chairperson and was
responsible for the publication of the report, which is why this document is known today as the
“Brundtland Report”.
She defined sustainable development as a satisfactory balance between human well-being and
that of the Earth. In other words, humanity’s progress must not be in conflict with its home. To
achieve this, it is necessary to develop a series of global policies to minimize negative impacts.

The report warned about the negative impacts of economic development on the environment with
the aim of finding possible solutions to the problems caused by industrialization and population
growth.
Sustainability has a strong ethical component implicit in it, as”.
According to Bryan Norton “sustainability is a fundamentally ethical concept raising questions
regarding the value of nature, responsibilities to future generations and social justice”. (book:
“Sustainability: A Philosophy of Adaptive Ecosystem Management)
This is why sustainability is divided into three fundamental pillars: environmental, social and
economic.
These three axes are interconnected and sustainable development can only be achieved if
conditions are optimal for each pillar. Examples of sustainability for each pillar include:
Environmental. Harnessing and making good use of natural resources, avoiding ecosystem
pollution, promoting the human right to a healthy environment, protecting and maintaining
biodiversity, etc.
•Social. Fighting inequalities, respecting human rights, promoting a just green transition that
leaves no one behind, empowering people, quality of life, etc.
•Economic. Innovation and research that serves people, economic prosperity within the limits of
our planet, decent employment conditions, etc.
Social sustainability focuses on creating communities that are fair, diverse, connected
and offer a high quality of life, taking into consideration all the things people need
from the communities they live in. It also ensures that future generations benefit from
at least the same quality of life as we do. To protect the community, we need to take
care of our home, planet Earth.
Environmental sustainability is responsibly interacting with the planet to maintain its
natural resources and climate.
Economic sustainability should be part of the decision-making process. It requires a
long-term approach, and the benefits must be weighed against the other aspects of
sustainability.
Sustainability has been historically perceived as a business issue involving activities
that give back to the community to help mitigate the business’s environmental impact.
In the last decade, it has become evident that individuals should also strive towards
sustainability, by changing their habits and by using their consumer power to reward
companies that incorporate sustainability in their strategy.
The Sustainable Development Goals and Agenda 2030
Beyond the definition of what sustainability is, the aim has been to
crystallize this concept into concrete policies. The creation of
the Sustainable Development Goals and the 2030 Agenda respond to
this need. With the help of both tools, there is a broad framework for
action and a point of reference.

The SDGs: what are they and how to strategically integrate them?
The Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) are 17 goals subdivided
into 169 points of great importance. The year 2030 has been set as the
deadline for their achievement, hence the creation of the 2030 Agenda.
They have been in place since 2015 and, thanks to them, the signatory
countries have changed their growth patterns. Without these goals, it is
impossible to understand what sustainability is.
 WHAT ARE
SUSTAINABLE
DEVELOPMENT GOALS
(SDG’S)?
 MILLENIUM
DEVELOPMENT GOALS
VS.
SUSTAINABLE
DEVELOPMENT GOALS
(SDG’S)
 MILLENIUM DEVELOPMENT
GOALS (2000-2015)

➢ MILLENNIUM DEVELOPMENT GOALS

(MDGS) were a set of global development targets
established by the United Nations in the year 2000.
➢ They were designed to address key issues affecting
people in developing countries and to improve their
living conditions.
➢ The MDGs provided a framework for international
cooperation and focused on eradicating poverty,
improving health, education, gender equality, and
environmental sustainability.
➢ The goals were intended to be achieved by 2015.
 MILLENIUM DEVELOPMENT GOALS
THE EIGHT MILLENNIUM DEVELOPMENT GOALS WERE AS FOLLOWS:
➢ ERADICATE EXTREME POVERTY AND HUNGER: The goal aimed to halve
the proportion of people living on less than $1.25 a day and to achieve full and
productive employment and decent work for all, including women and young people.
➢ ACHIEVE UNIVERSAL PRIMARY EDUCATION: This goal sought to ensure
that all boys and girls had access to and completed a full course of primary
schooling.
➢ PROMOTE GENDER EQUALITY AND EMPOWER WOMEN: The goal
aimed to eliminate gender disparities in primary and secondary education, increase
the participation of women in the workforce, and give women greater representation
in decision-making processes.
➢ REDUCE CHILD MORTALITY: The goal was to reduce the under-five mortality
rate, as well as the maternal mortality ratio.
 CONTD….
➢ IMPROVE MATERNAL HEALTH: This goal aimed to reduce maternal mortality
and provide universal access to reproductive healthcare services.
➢ COMBAT HIV/AIDS, MALARIA, AND OTHER DISEASES: The goal sought
to halt and reverse the spread of HIV/AIDS, malaria, and other major diseases.
➢ ENSURE ENVIRONMENTAL SUSTAINABILITY: This goal aimed to integrate
sustainable development principles into national policies, reverse environmental
degradation, and promote access to clean drinking water and sanitation.
➢ DEVELOP A GLOBAL PARTNERSHIP FOR DEVELOPMENT: The goal
focused on promoting trade, debt relief, and access to affordable essential drugs, as
well as enhancing cooperation among developed and developing countries to achieve
the other mdgs.
The MDGs were widely recognized for bringing global attention to critical issues and
inspiring concerted efforts to address them.
Although the goals were not fully achieved in all areas and regions, significant
progress was made on several fronts, such as poverty reduction, improved access to
education and healthcare, and advancements in gender equality.
 MDGS-ACHIEVEMENTS
Eradicate extreme poverty and hunger: This goal saw substantial progress, with the
proportion of people living in extreme poverty (defined as living on less than $1.25 per
day) falling significantly. However, hunger reduction efforts faced challenges, and
some regions, particularly Sub-Saharan Africa, continued to struggle with food
insecurity.
Achieve universal primary education: Progress was made in increasing primary
school enrollment rates, especially in developing regions. However, disparities
remained in the quality of education and completion rates.
Promote gender equality and empower women: Advances were made in increasing
female representation in parliaments and providing access to education and healthcare
for women. However, gender disparities persisted in various areas, including the
workforce and decision-making roles.
Reduce child mortality: Global child mortality rates declined, thanks to improved
healthcare and vaccination efforts. Nonetheless, some regions faced persistent
challenges in reducing child mortality, primarily due to preventable diseases and
malnutrition.
 MDGS-ACHIEVEMENTS

Improve maternal health: Significant strides were made in improving maternal health
and reducing maternal mortality rates, but progress varied across regions and countries.
Combat HIV/AIDS, malaria, and other diseases: The fight against HIV/AIDS,
malaria, and tuberculosis saw progress through increased access to treatment and
prevention measures. However, these diseases remained major health challenges,
particularly in sub-Saharan Africa.
Ensure environmental sustainability: Achievements in environmental sustainability
were limited. Although some regions made progress in improving access to clean water
and sanitation, environmental degradation and climate change continued to be pressing
global concerns.
Develop a global partnership for development: International aid increased, and
efforts were made to enhance trade relations and debt relief for developing countries.
However, some challenges in trade policies and a lack of technology transfer hindered
progress in this area.
FOLLOWING THE EXPIRATION OF THE MDGS IN 2015,
THE UNITED NATIONS ADOPTED A NEW SET OF GOALS KNOWN AS
THE SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT GOALS (SDGS) TO CONTINUE
THE GLOBAL DEVELOPMENT AGENDA BEYOND 2015 AND TO
ADDRESS A BROADER RANGE OF CHALLENGES IN A MORE
COMPREHENSIVE AND INTERCONNECTED MANNER.
 SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT
GOALS

➢ SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT GOALS

(SDGS) are a set of 17 global objectives established
by the United Nations to address various social,
economic, and environmental challenges facing the
world.
➢ Adopted in September 2015 as part of the 2030
agenda for Sustainable Development, the SDG’s aim
to promote prosperity, protect the planet, and ensure
well-being for all people by the year 2030.
➢ Each goal is interconnected, and achieving one goal
often contributes to the progress of others.
 GLOBAL SIGNIFICANCE AND
COMMITMENT OF SDGS
➢ Universal Agenda: The SDGs are a universal agenda applicable to
all countries, regardless of their level of development. They call for
collective action from all nations to achieve a better and more
sustainable future for all people, leaving no one behind.
➢ 2030 Agenda: The SDGs are part of the 2030 Agenda for
Sustainable Development, adopted by all United Nations Member
States in September 2015. The commitment is to achieve the goals
by the year 2030, aligning efforts for global progress over the next
decade.
➢ Global Cooperation: The SDGs promote global cooperation and
partnerships among governments, private sectors, civil society
organizations, and international institutions. Collaboration is
essential to address shared challenges that go beyond national
borders.
 CONTD…

➢ Multifaceted Approach: The 17 SDGs encompass

a wide range of interconnected issues, from poverty
eradication and hunger to climate action and gender
equality. This comprehensive approach recognizes
that sustainable development requires addressing
multiple dimensions of well-being.
➢ Balancing the Triple Bottom Line: The SDGs
balance the triple bottom line of social, economic,
and environmental development. They acknowledge
that economic growth should be inclusive and
environmentally sustainable, with social equity at its
core.
➢ Leaving No One Behind: The SDGs prioritize
reaching the most vulnerable and marginalized
populations, ensuring that the benefits of
development are equitably distributed across all
segments of society. No one should be left behind in
the pursuit of sustainable development.
 CONTD…
➢ Transformational Change: The SDGs call for transformative changes in policies, systems,
and practices to achieve sustainability. This requires rethinking traditional approaches and
adopting innovative solutions.
➢ Climate Action: Goal 13 (Climate Action) specifically addresses the urgent need to combat
climate change and its impacts. It emphasizes the global commitment to reduce greenhouse
gas emissions and enhance resilience to climate-related disasters.
➢ Global Recognition: The SDGs have gained widespread recognition and endorsement from
governments, businesses, civil society organizations, and individuals worldwide. This global
acknowledgment has generated momentum for action and accountability.
➢ Data-Driven Monitoring: The SDGs promote data-driven monitoring and reporting to track
progress, identify gaps, and hold stakeholders accountable. This evidence-based approach
helps measure the impact of development efforts.
➢ Reaching Beyond National Boundaries: Many of the SDGs require collective efforts that
extend beyond national boundaries. Issues such as climate change, ocean conservation, and
biodiversity preservation demand global cooperation and mutual responsibility.
➢ Long-Term Vision: The SDGs offer a long-term vision for a sustainable future, guiding
decision-making at all levels of society. By setting ambitious but achievable targets, they
inspire action for a better world.
SDGs provide a roadmap to a more equitable, resilient, and sustainable world by 2030, and their
achievement depends on the collaboration and dedication of all stakeholders across the globe.
 GOAL 1: NO POVERTY

➢ End poverty in all its forms everywhere.

➢ Target: Eradicate extreme poverty and reduce overall
poverty rates.
GOAL 2: ZERO HUNGER
➢ End hunger, achieve food security, and improve nutrition.
➢ Target: Ensure access to safe, nutritious, and sufficient food
for all.
GOAL 3: GOOD HEALTH AND WELL-BEING

➢ Ensure healthy lives and promote well-being for all ages.

➢ Target: Improve healthcare access and reduce maternal and
child mortality.
 GOAL 4: QUALITY EDUCATION

➢ Ensure inclusive and equitable education for all.

➢ Target: Provide access to quality education and lifelong
learning opportunities.
GOAL 5: GENDER EQUALITY
➢ Achieve gender equality and empower all women and girls.
➢ Target: Eliminate discrimination and violence against
women.

GOAL 6: CLEAN WATER AND SANITATION

➢ Ensure access to clean water and sanitation for all.

➢ Target: Improve water quality and sustainable water
management.
 GOAL 7: AFFORDABLE AND CLEAN ENERGY

➢ Ensure access to affordable and sustainable energy.

➢ Target: Increase the share of renewable energy in the global energy
mix.
GOAL 8: DECENT WORK AND ECONOMIC GROWTH

➢ Promote sustained, inclusive, and sustainable economic growth.

➢ Target: Create job opportunities and enhance labor rights.

GOAL 9: INDUSTRY, INNOVATION, & INFRASTRUCTURE

➢ Build resilient infrastructure and foster innovation.

➢ Target: Enhance infrastructure development and technological
advancements.
 GOAL 10: REDUCED INEQUALITIES

➢ Reduce inequalities within and among countries.

➢ Target: Empower and promote social, economic, and
political inclusion.
GOAL 11: SUSTAINABLE CITIES AND COMMUNITIES
➢ Make cities and human settlements inclusive, safe,
resilient, and sustainable.
➢ Target: Improve urban planning and access to basic
services.
GOAL 12: RESPONSIBLE CONSUMPTION
AND PRODUCTION
➢ Ensure sustainable consumption and production patterns.
➢ Target: Reduce waste generation and promote sustainable
practices.
 GOAL 13: CLIMATE ACTION

➢ Take urgent action to combat climate change and its impacts.

➢ Target: Strengthen resilience and reduce greenhouse gas
emissions.
GOAL 14: LIFE BELOW WATER

➢ Conserve and sustainably use the oceans, seas, and marine

resources.
➢ Target: Protect marine ecosystems and reduce marine
pollution.
GOAL 15: LIFE ON LAND
➢ Protect, restore, and promote sustainable use of terrestrial
ecosystems.
➢ Target: Combat desertification, halt biodiversity loss, and
prevent deforestation.
 GOAL 16: PEACE, JUSTICE, AND STRONG INSTITUTIONS

➢ Promote peaceful and inclusive societies, provide

access to justice, and build effective institutions.
➢ Target: Reduce violence, combat corruption, and
ensure equal access to justice.

GOAL 17: PARTNERSHIPS FOR THE GOALS

➢ Strengthen global partnerships to achieve the

SDGs.
➢ Target: Enhance cooperation among governments,
private sector, and civil society.
Importance of the SDGs in the Global Development Agenda
The Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) represent a significant milestone in the
global development agenda. The SDGs have several important implications and
benefits, including:
1.Universal application: The SDGs apply to all countries, regardless of their level of
development, and are based on the principle of leaving no one behind. This universal
application means that all countries are committed to achieving the SDGs and working
towards sustainable development.
2.Comprehensive approach: The SDGs are a comprehensive and integrated approach
to development that includes economic, social, and environmental dimensions of
sustainability. The SDGs cover a wide range of issues, including poverty, health,
education, gender equality, climate change, and biodiversity.
3.Participation and ownership: The SDGs were developed through an inclusive and
participatory process that involved governments, civil society, private sector, and other
stakeholders. This process has led to a sense of ownership and commitment among
these stakeholders to achieving the SDGs.
Importance of the SDGs in the Global Development Agenda (contd…)
4. Monitoring and accountability: The SDGs have a set of indicators and targets that
allow for monitoring progress and holding countries accountable for their commitments.
This monitoring and accountability framework is critical for ensuring that progress
towards the SDGs is tracked and that countries are held responsible for their
commitments.
5. Catalyzing action: The SDGs have galvanized global action towards sustainable
development. The goals have inspired a range of initiatives and partnerships, including
public-private partnerships, that are working towards achieving the SDGs.

In summary, the SDGs are a critical framework for promoting sustainable development
and addressing global challenges. The goals provide a comprehensive and integrated
approach to development that involves all stakeholders, promotes accountability and
monitoring, and catalyzes action towards sustainable development.
SDGs in INDIAN CONTEXT(https://www.niti.gov.in/sites/default/files/2020-
07/SDX_Index_India_Baseline_Report_21-12-2018.pdf)
The Indian government has shown a strong commitment to achieving the 17 SDGs by
2030 and has integrated them into its national development policies and programs. NITI
Aayog is the nodal institution for achieving SDGs in the country, leading the 2030
Agenda. In addition, the Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation (MoSPI)
has been leading discussions for developing national indicators for the SDGs. State
governments are key to India’s progress on the SDGs as they are best placed to ‘put
people first’ and to ensuring that ‘no one is left behind’.
Some key areas where India has focused its efforts in relation to the SDGs:
Poverty Alleviation (SDG 1): India has implemented various social welfare programs
to reduce poverty, such as the National Rural Employment Guarantee Act
(NREGA), providing job opportunities and income support to rural households.
India has successfully lifted millions of people out of poverty, reducing the poverty rate
from 45% in 1993 to around 21% in 2011.
Zero Hunger: The prevalence of undernourishment in India has decreased from 18.2%
in 2004-2006 to 14.5% in 2016-2018.
Good Health and Well-being: India has made significant improvements in maternal
and child health, with a reduction in maternal mortality ratio from 254 per 100,000 live
births in 2004-2006 to 113 in 2016-2018. Under-five mortality rate declined from 89
per 1,000 live births in 1990 to 34 in 2019.
Quality Education (SDG 4): Initiatives like the Right to Education Act and the Beti
Bachao, Beti Padhao campaign aim to improve access to quality education,
particularly for girls. India has achieved near-universal primary school enrolment, with
a net enrolment rate of 98.3% in 2018.
Gender Equality (SDG 5): India has taken steps to promote gender equality, including
legislative measures and awareness campaigns to address issues like violence against
women and girls. The female labour force participation rate in India increased from
22.5% in 2005 to 23.3% in 2019. The child marriage rate declined from 47% in 2005-
2006 to 30% in 2015-2016.
Clean Water and Sanitation (SDG 6): The government has launched programs like
Swachh Bharat Abhiyan (Clean India Mission) to improve sanitation and access to
safe drinking water. Access to improved drinking water sources has increased from 73%
in 1990 to 94% in 2017. Access to improved sanitation facilities has also improved,
rising from 21% in 1990 to 71% in 2017.
Affordable and Clean Energy (SDG 7): India has been investing in renewable energy
sources like solar & wind power to increase the share of clean energy in its energy mix.
Decent Work and Economic Growth (SDG 8): The government is promoting
entrepreneurship and industrial development to generate employment opportunities and
foster economic growth.
Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure (SDG 9): India is focusing on building
modern infrastructure & fostering innovation through initiatives like Make in India and
Digital India.
SDGs in INDIAN CONTEXT…contd…
Reduced Inequality (SDG 10): Efforts are being made to address income inequality
and social disparities through targeted welfare schemes and inclusive policies.
Sustainable Cities and Communities (SDG 11): India is working towards creating
smart and sustainable cities through projects like the Smart Cities Mission.
Responsible Consumption and Production (SDG 12): The government is promoting
sustainable production practices and encouraging responsible consumption to minimize
waste generation.
Climate Action (SDG 13): India is actively involved in global climate change
initiatives and has set ambitious targets for increasing renewable energy capacity and
reducing greenhouse gas emissions.
Life Below Water and Life on Land (SDGs 14 and 15)
India is implementing conservation and protection measures to preserve its marine and
terrestrial biodiversity.
Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions (SDG 16)
The government is committed to strengthening institutions, promoting good
governance, and ensuring access to justice for all citizens.
Partnerships for the Goals (SDG 17)
India is actively engaging in international cooperation and partnerships to achieve the
SDGs at the global level.

Can be assessed through dashboards.sdgindex.org/profiles/indi>>

The role of Individual and community for a sustainable lifestyle is defined by the
actions individuals take to promote sustainability in their daily lives.

Sustainable growth involves decent economic, social, and environmental balance.

How to achieve sustainable development goals?
1.No Poverty
•The pandemic pushed many people into poverty. Many people have lost their jobs and
businesses.
•Around 8% of people are in extreme poverty.
•As individuals, it is our responsibility to help each other. Donate what you don’t want
to needy people.
•Donate food, books, toys, and furniture that you do not use.
•Create employment if possible.
•Many people do not get well paid for their work and do not support the type of
business that pays low wages.
2. Zero hunger
•This aims to end hunger and malnutrition, achieve food security, and promote
sustainable agriculture. According to the UN, 1 in 10 people in the world suffers from
hunger, and 1 in 3 lack adequate food.
•Find the SDG for zero hunger and donate if possible.
•Donate leftover food to needy people.
•In the big ceremonies, there will be leftover food donate to NGOs or people in need.
3. Quality Education
•This is the world of the digital era. This goal aims to provide education for all.
Upgrading yourself by taking free online classes or going to universities.
•Donating books helps people who can’t afford them.
•Start online tutorials and educate people.
4. Create awareness
Many people are unaware of a sustainable lifestyle and why it is important. Start
creating awareness through social media channels. Educate community members. 5.
Don’t waste food
•Growing food takes effort from the farmers. Transportation and distribution produce
carbon dioxide. Food waste contributes to 6% of global warming.
•Thrown food sits in landfills and produces methane and buy consciously.
•Compost organic waste. Donate leftover food for needy people and feed birds
•Wasting food means wasting all the efforts of the farmers, distributors, shops, etc.
6. Shop local products
By shopping locally you’re supporting local farmers and businesses which helps the
local economy.
7. Eat less meat
Most of the agricultural land is used for raising farm animals, leading to deforestation,
and the meat and dairy industries produce greenhouse gases. By eating less meat, you
reduce your carbon footprint.
8. Race and gender equality
•Educate about gender equality and support against gender discrimination and racism.
Women earn less money compared to men for the same work, and In workplaces,
women get physical abuse.
•Raise your voices against physical abuse, harassment, and domestic violence.
•Help with household chores to reduce the burden on one person.
9. Decent work and economic growth
•Stay informed about workers’ rights.
•Do not support companies that pay low wages.
•Promote local and fair-trade businesses and local farmers.
10. Reduce, reuse, recycle, and refuse

According to UNEP 400 million tons of plastic waste are generated every year.
10.1 Reduce:
•Reduce food waste and plastic waste. Try to buy plastic-free products.
•Say no to Single-use plastic bottles, cutlery, single-use plastic carry bags, plastic
cups, and straws. Whenever you go out, keep a cloth bag and a reusable water bottle
with you.
•Do not buy products with heavy packaging.
•Reduce energy consumption by switching off lights, fans, TVs, etc.
environment.
10.2 Reuse:
•Reuse whatever is possible. Find different ways to reuse things, giving them a
second life.
•Reuse old clothes to make bath mats.
•Reuse plastic bottles for growing and watering plants. Use it as a bird feeder.
•Reuse food waste by composting and making bio-enzyme cleaners.
•Reuse carton boxes that come with online deliveries to store toys, books, etc.
10. Reduce, reuse, recycle, and refuse (contd…)

10.3 Recycle:
•If you cannot reduce or reuse it, give it to recycling. Recycling reduces the use of
natural resources.
•Think before you buy; not all types of plastic can be recycled.
•Plastic bottles, cardboard, newspaper, books, etc. can be recycled.
10.4 Refuse:
Refuse single-use plastics, straws, plastic cutlery, and unwanted promotional offers.
While traveling, take a reusable water bottle. At the hotel, say no to small bottles of
shampoo and body wash.

11. Industry, innovation, and infrastructure

•Support Building resilient and sustainable infrastructure.
•Invest in eco-friendly and energy-saving homes and offices.

12. Sustainable swaps for everyday use

Bamboo toothbrushes, shampoo bars, reusable coffee mugs, reusable cutlery,
reusable coffee mugs, Reusable kitchen towels, food wraps (beeswax wrap), Cloth
pads, menstrual cups, cloth diapers, etc. These are some examples we can swap,
which will help our money and the environment.
13. Support sustainable fashion
•The fashion industry produces water and air pollution. It Requires a lot of resources
like water, energy, and raw materials to make clothes. Choose wisely before buying
any clothes.
•Choose sustainable and eco-friendly fabrics like organic cotton, bamboo, hemp,
Tencel, etc.
•Ditch fast fashion, which is harming our environment. Fast fashion generates a lot
of waste. Adapt slow and sustainable fashion.
14. Reducing energy consumption
Switch off the TV, lights, fan, and AC whenever you’re not using them. According to
the EPA, 60% of electricity comes from burning fossil fuels. Which is the second
largest contributor to greenhouse gas emissions. Switching to renewable energy
resources such as wind and solar reduces carbon emissions.
15. Using public transportation
•Transportation is the largest contributor to greenhouse gas emissions.
•Use public transportation like buses, trains, and air travel to offset individual carbon
footprints. Whenever possible, try walking or riding a bicycle to the nearest
locations.
16. Reduce water wastage
Take short showers, use water consciously while brushing and washing dishes, and
reduce wasting water.
17. Renewable energy resources
Support and use renewable energy resources like solar and wind power.
18. Supporting eco-friendly and sustainable products and businesses
•Choosing sustainable & eco-friendly products to help businesses. Use materials like
bamboo, recycled materials, renewable energy resources, etc.
•Doing this creates more demand for sustainable products and encourages sustainable
businesses.
19. Creating employment
If possible, create employment. It helps unemployed people to help their families.
20. Life on land
•Reduce paper waste; instead, go paperless. Paper production causes deforestation.
Ditch the tissue and use reusable hand towels.
•Join community clean-up projects.
•Plant trees.
•Compost organic waste.
•Raise your voice against animal cruelty and shop for cruelty-free and vegan-certified
products.
•Reduce single-use products, reduce waste, throw less, eat less meat, and live a
sustainable life.
21. Life below water
•Reduce waste as much as possible. The amount of waste we produce ends up in landfills and sits
there for hundreds of years, and some ends up in oceans, harming marine life.
•Plastic is the main cause of ocean pollution.
•Involvement in river and ocean cleanup projects.
•Buy fishes from sustainable fisheries.
22. Promote peace and justice
This goal aims to promote peace, inclusive societies, and justice for all.
These are some of the individual contributions that help in a sustainable future.
The role of Community involvement is crucial in sustainable development. Each
individual and community need to understand what is sustainable development and why
it is important by educating each other in schools, organizations, and communities.
Sustainable development aims to meet individual needs without compromising the
ability to meet the needs of future generations.
Communities will get directly affected by the development projects, and their
participation is crucial to ensure these developmental goals meet their needs.
How can communities get involved in sustainable development goals?
1.Run a campaign:
Say no to single-use plastic items
2. Support each other businesses in communities
Shopping with local community members can help the local economy and employment.
3. Start community clean-up drives
Start organizing clean-up drives. Volunteer to clean rivers, oceans, and land. Make a
community and start cleaning.
4. Educate and create awareness among the community
Create awareness by educating each other in the community, organizations, and schools.
5. Promote gender equality
Help women raise their voices against abuse and harassment.
6. Supporting local farmers
Support local farmers, shops, businesses, and communities that are helping in the
circular economy.
7. Save natural resources
Our natural resources are getting contaminated and overused. There is a lack of quality
air and clean water. We are constantly polluting our natural resources. Support plastic-
free and eco-friendly products.
By supporting organic farming, we can reduce soil pollution.
8. Community composting and recycling
We cannot recycle everything we use. Mindful while choosing products. Set up
community compost bins for gardening in community areas.
9. Promote renewable energy resources
The enormous amount of CO2 emitted while producing electricity Solar and wind are
renewable energy resources, and by supporting clean energy, we can reduce carbon
emissions.
10. Plant trees
Plant as many trees as possible. Deforestation is leading to climate.
11. Health and sanitation
•Lakes and ponds are getting contaminated with chemicals, pesticides, and plastics. There is a
lack of clean water, and many people are suffering due to water scarcity.
•According to the UNDP, in 2015, 4.5 billion people lacked safe sanitation.
•Involve communities to identify risks associated with poor sanitation. Encourage them to take
action to address these issues.
•Such as building toilets, frequently handwashing, and improving waste management.
•We need to protect our natural resources and educate each other on clean water and sanitation.
•There are many ways that we can contribute to sustainable development.
•Join local communities, organizations, and environmental working groups working on
sustainable issues.
•Volunteer in coastal clean-ups, community clean-ups, river cleaning, lake cleaning, and planting
trees.

As an individual and communities, we are responsible for our actions. We must create awareness
of sustainability. By sharing sustainability practices and encouraging each other to adopt a
sustainable lifestyle. Educating how it impacts the planet.

This is how the role of Individual and community for a sustainable lifestyle helps build a
sustainable future for all.
Future of the SDGs: Opportunities and Innovations for Sustainable Development
The Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) provide a roadmap for achieving a
sustainable future for all. While progress has been made in some areas, significant
challenges remain, and there is a need for new opportunities and innovations to
accelerate progress towards the SDGs. Here are some opportunities and innovations that
can help achieve sustainable development:
1.Technology: Technology has the potential to be a significant enabler of sustainable
development. Advances in renewable energy, smart agriculture, and clean technologies
can accelerate progress towards achieving the SDGs.
2.Circular economy: The circular economy is a model that aims to reduce waste and
maximize the use of resources. It offers opportunities for sustainable production and
consumption and can contribute to achieving several SDGs, including SDG 12:
Responsible Consumption and Production.
3.Social entrepreneurship: Social entrepreneurs create innovative solutions that
address social and environmental challenges. They can play a significant role in
achieving the SDGs by developing sustainable business models that address social and
environmental issues.
4. Sustainable finance: Sustainable finance involves investing in sustainable
businesses and projects. It can play a critical role in closing the financing gap for the
SDGs and promoting sustainable economic growth.
5. Public-private partnerships: Public-private partnerships can bring together the
resources and expertise of governments, businesses, and civil society to achieve
sustainable development. They can help mobilize funding, leverage expertise, and
create innovative solutions to achieve the SDGs.
In conclusion, there are many opportunities and innovations that can help achieve
sustainable development and accelerate progress towards the SDGs. Technology, the
circular economy, social entrepreneurship, sustainable finance, and public-private
partnerships are just some examples. It is essential to embrace these opportunities and
innovations and work together to achieve a sustainable future for all.
How to Contribute to Achieving the SDGs: Roles of Individuals and Organizations
1.Awareness and advocacy: Individuals and organizations can raise awareness about
the SDGs and advocate for their implementation. This can include sharing information
about the SDGs on social media, attending events and meetings, and engaging with
policymakers and decision-makers.
2.Sustainable consumption and production: Individuals can contribute to achieving
the SDGs by adopting sustainable consumption and production practices. This includes
reducing waste, using renewable energy sources, and choosing sustainable products and
services.
3.Volunteering and donations: Individuals can contribute to achieving the SDGs by
volunteering their time and donating to organizations working towards the SDGs. This
can include volunteering at a local charity, donating to organizations working on
environmental issues or poverty reduction, and supporting education initiatives.
4.Corporate responsibility: Organizations can contribute to achieving the SDGs by
incorporating sustainable practices into their operations. This includes reducing
greenhouse gas emissions, adopting sustainable supply chain practices, and promoting
responsible business practices.
6. Partnership and collaboration: Achieving the SDGs requires partnership and
collaboration among all stakeholders, including individuals, organizations, and
governments. Organizations can collaborate with other organizations and governments
to create partnerships that work towards achieving the SDGs.
In conclusion, achieving the SDGs requires collective efforts from individuals,
organizations, and governments.
Individuals can contribute by raising awareness, adopting sustainable practices,
volunteering and donating,
while organizations can contribute by adopting sustainable practices, collaborating with
other organizations and governments, and promoting responsible business practices.
Everyone has a role to play in achieving the SDGs, and it is essential to work together
towards this common goal.