Core Concepts of Sustainable Development and Environment

Agenda 21: A Program for Sustainable Development

Agenda 21 is a program of the United Nations focused on sustainable development. It was adopted at the Earth Summit in 1992, held in Rio de Janeiro, by more than 178 governments. In 1997, five years after the Earth Summit, another conference was held to study the progress of Agenda 21's implementation. Agenda 21 emphasizes that education can be a transformative force.

Key Environmental and Development Concepts

Sustainable Development

Sustainable Development, as defined in 1987 by the Brundtland Commission Report, states: "Development that meets the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs."

Environment

The Environment, as defined by the United Nations Conference on the Human Environment in Stockholm in 1972, refers to a selected set of physicochemical, biological, and social components and processes that can affect living beings.

Eutrophication

Eutrophication is a form of water pollution that occurs with the accumulation of phosphates, nitrogen, or sulfur. These substances are, in fact, nutrients for planktonic algae, causing them to grow disproportionately and form a layer covering the entire surface of the water. This prevents light from reaching deeper layers, thereby hindering the development of life in the ecosystem. Additionally, when these algae die and fall to the bottom, their decomposition can deplete the water of oxygen, resulting in "dead water" zones.

Biofuels

Biofuels are any type of fuel derived from organic matter, such as corn, sugarcane, vegetable oils, or manure. These fuels can replace a portion of traditional fossil fuel consumption, making them a clean energy source for many. For others, however, they involve negative impacts: firstly, their use has led developing countries to destroy forests for cultivation; secondly, their production competes with food crops.

Green Energy

Green Energy refers to energy production that yields power while significantly reducing environmental impact.

• Solar Energy: Captures solar radiation through panels and converts it into heat, which is then converted into electricity.
• Wind Energy: Uses the force of wind to move turbines, generating electricity.
• Tidal Energy: Uses the energy produced by the constant motion of sea waves or tides.
• Geothermal Energy: Uses hot water or steam from geologically active areas.