Sustainable Development

The world must move towards economically inclusive, socially viable, and ecosystem-friendly sustainable growth models. Every nation's economic, social, and environmental policies must be crafted toward a sustainable goal.

Today, the future of the Earth’s vast population and its natural environments are threatened by an unprecedented and escalating mix of challenges that call for immediate solutions. Many of these challenges owe their origins to how humans interact with nature. The complex nature of their actions and their potential impacts are long-lasting. It is time we recognize that climate change is the defining challenge of our times, with its broad economic, social, and environmental impacts. Every nation’s developmental agenda must incorporate these ideas at its core for a sustainable future.

The Consortium for Sustainable Development recognizes these challenges and focuses on three critical aspects of development- economic, social, and environmental. Access to healthcare, education, housing, clean water, and the right to live with dignity is the basic fabric of social and economic sustainability. Environmental sustainability is about achieving these goals while protecting the Earth’s natural systems. Thus, forging inclusive economic growth that is socially and environmentally viable is central to sustainability.

Sustainable development requires a holistic, long-term perspective and decision-making in advanced and developing economies. The challenge is to balance economic, social, and environmental considerations and make decisions that are sustainable in the long term. Sustainability requires collaboration between administrative establishments, scientists, civil society organizations, and individuals.

We bring together a mix of people who understand the issues at the root level. Our commitment is to work with communities around the world and enable policymaking in support of sustainable development. We have expertise in Earth science, climate change, environment, natural hazards, conservation, public policy, and community science. Our education and outreach programs are designed to address a broad audience, from students to corporates and the public. We support clean and just energy transitions by developing evidence, advocating, working with partners, and directly advising governments in the United States, Canada, and emerging economies worldwide.