A strong economy, a healthy environment and a good quality of life support one another. Sustainable development needs all three.
A competitive economy attracts investment and creates jobs. Businesses need skilled workers, reliable infrastructure and confidence that they can keep operating. Environmental damage and repeated disruption weaken these conditions and people's livelihoods.
A healthy environment needs clean air and water and functioning ecosystems. Pollution harms health and raises treatment costs. Damaged habitats provide fewer ecosystem services. Environmental protection therefore supports daily well-being and the conditions the economy depends on.
Quality of life should improve across the population. Accessible services, shared spaces and community ties help people participate. Residents can share knowledge, volunteer and shape decisions so plans meet everyday needs. Community spirit and active participation are part of sustainable development.
Step by step
Jobs and investment
A competitive economy supports employment and income.
Healthy surroundings
Clean air, water and ecosystems support health and the economy.
Quality of life
Accessible services, community ties and participation help benefits reach different groups.
Worked example: A park is more than one benefit
A well-designed neighbourhood park can provide recreation, shade and a gathering place. Its success depends on access, maintenance and ecological quality. Nearby investment may benefit from an attractive environment, but this does not prove that every resident benefits or that a park alone creates economic growth.
Watch out for this
Sustainability is only about protecting nature.
Environmental protection is essential, and it interacts with livelihoods, employment, equity, community life and the needs of future generations.
Check your understanding
Which evidence set best evaluates a new neighbourhood project?
- Only the developer's revenue.
- Jobs and investment, air and water effects, and access and participation across groups.
- Only the number of trees planted, regardless of survival or use.