– A Word That Has Become Ubiquitous in Recent Years

A word that has increasingly appeared in almost all areas of our lives in recent years. But what exactly does sustainability mean? While in everyday language we associate the term with longevity and environmental protection, "sustainable development" refers to the responsible use of our planet's finite resources.

Sustainability Has Existed for Over 300 Years

"Sustainability" is not a new concept. According to various sources, the term "sustainability" dates back to the German forester Hans Carl von Carlowitz (1645–1714), who applied it to forestry in his 1713 book. The goal was to create a stable balance. The basic idea: in a forest, only as many trees should be cut down as can grow back in a foreseeable time. This was to ensure the long-term existence of the forest, which forms the basis of forestry.

Brundtland Report Defines "Sustainable Development" in 1987

The term "sustainability" gained significant international recognition through its mention in the Brundtland Commission's report. The United Nations established this World Commission on Environment and Development in 1983, led by former Norwegian Prime Minister Gro Harlem Brundtland. The mandate was to outline long-term perspectives for a development policy that is also environmentally friendly.

In its final report, "Our Common Future," the Commission described the concept of sustainable development. The report also contains the world-famous definition of sustainable development:
"Humanity has the ability to make development sustainable – to ensure that it meets the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs."

Agenda 2030 – 17 UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)

The question of sustainable development has since gained increasing importance. In 2015, the UN General Assembly adopted the "2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development" during the UN Sustainability Summit. The goal is to initiate various measures within 15 years to improve living conditions across the planet. At the same time, it aims to ensure the protection of the Earth for future generations.

The "2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development" makes it clear that global challenges of the present and future can be mastered if the international community works together. The Agenda 2030 applies to developing countries, emerging economies, and industrialized nations alike. It obliges all countries to contribute to the planet's future.

The cornerstones are global economic progress, social justice, and environmental protection. Along these three dimensions – economy, society, environment – the Agenda 2030 defines a total of 17 sustainability goals. These goals address diverse topics such as combating poverty and hunger, promoting decent work and economic growth, and taking climate action. The 17 goals illustrate the broad scope of sustainable development.

The issue of sustainable development is becoming increasingly urgent – both nationally and internationally. Globalization, climate change, plastic pollution in the world's oceans, and dwindling natural resources all compel the international community to act together.

Sustainability is also a significant issue in Germany. Germany is committed to the Agenda 2030 and the 17 sustainability goals. In 2017, the German government outlined how it intends to achieve these sustainability goals in Germany and adopted 63 additional goals in its sustainability strategy.