NCERT · Class 10 · Social Science · Economics: DevelopmentWhy is the issue of sustainability important for economic development? Explain with suitable arguments.

The issue of sustainability is extremely important for economic development because it addresses the critical need to meet the present needs of human society without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs. Rapid industrialization and intensive exploitation of natural resources in the pursuit of high economic growth have led to severe environmental degradation, global warming, depletion of fossil fuels, and extinction of species. If we continue to use non-renewable resources like crude oil, coal, and groundwater at unsustainable rates, a time will come when these resources will completely exhaust, bringing all economic activities to a grinding halt. Furthermore, environmental damage such as soil erosion, deforestation, and water pollution creates irreversible ecological imbalances that ultimately threaten human survival. Therefore, sustainable development ensures a balanced approach where economic progress goes hand in hand with environmental protection and resource conservation, securing a prosperous and habitable planet for tomorrow.