Sustainability
Using resources in a way that meets current needs without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs.
Poverty
The inability to meet standard consumption needs. These standards can be absolute or relative.
While the two concepts may seem unrelated, in reality, sustainability and poverty are deeply intertwined. This is because:
- Poverty has an evident impact on sustainability.
- Sustainability can reduce poverty.
How poverty impacts sustainability
There are several ways in which poverty impacts sustainability:
- Poverty leads to overexploitation of resources.
- Poverty limits the access to sustainable technologies.
- Poverty increases a population's vulnerability to climate change.
Overexploitation of resources
People in poverty often rely on natural resources for survival, such as:
- Deforestation for firewood.
- Overfishing for food.
- Unsustainable farming practices.
These practices, often fuelled by poverty, can lead to resource depletion and environmental degradation.
ExampleIn regions like sub-Saharan Africa, poverty-driven deforestation contributes to soil erosion and loss of biodiversity, undermining long-term environmental sustainability.
Limited sccess to sustainable technology
Poor communities often lack access to:
- Clean energy sources.
- Efficient irrigation systems.
- Waste management infrastructure.
This reliance on polluting and inefficient technologies exacerbates environmental issues like air and water pollution.
NoteInvesting in renewable energy and sustainable technologies can break the cycle of poverty and environmental degradation.
Vulnerability to climate change
Poverty-stricken communities are often the most affected by climate change due to:
- Limited resources to adapt to extreme weather events
- Dependence on climate-sensitive livelihoods like agriculture.
- Inadequate infrastructure to withstand natural disasters.
In Bangladesh, frequent flooding displaces millions of people, destroying homes and crops.
Poor communities struggle to recover due to lack of resources and support.
How sustainability can reduce poverty
There are several ways in which a greater focus on sustainability can help reduce poverty:
- By promoting inclusive economic growth.
