The challenge of sustainable development
Sustainable development is one of the major challenges facing Scotland today. This means meeting the needs of today, particularly for the least advantaged in our society, while making sure that our children and our children's children have the resources they need to meet their needs in the future.
It is a simple idea, but a substantial task. It is not a policy that can be delivered by just one part of the Government: all policies have impacts on the Government's social, economic and environmental goals to a greater or lesser extent.
Sustainable development is about achieving economic development and social justice with less harm to the environment and improved efficiency in our use of natural resources.
Why do we need sustainable development?
Strong environmental policies are improving our working environment, but there is always more that can be done. The Scottish Government's Environmental Policy sets out what can and should be done to promote sustainable development and it sets targets for environmental improvement across the estate. It may also be used as guidance to Government Agencies and non-departmental public bodies, as well as to private sector companies who want to do more to ensure that their working practices do not adversely affect the environment.
For more information, also visit the Sustainable Scotland website.