Which statement best defines sustainable development?

• A. Development that meets the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs
• B. Economic growth at any cost
• C. Reducing environmental regulations to boost industry
• D. Focusing solely on social equity

Answer: (A)

Sustainable development means growing in a way that uses resources wisely today while keeping options open for people in the future. It combines social well-being, economic viability, and environmental protection so that meeting present needs doesn’t reduce the ability of future generations to meet theirs. That makes the statement about meeting present needs without compromising future generations the best definition because it explicitly emphasizes intergenerational equity and long‑term viability.

The other ideas miss essential parts: chasing growth at any cost ignores environmental and social consequences; weakening environmental protections places industry ahead of long-term sustainability; and focusing only on social equity neglects the environmental and economic dimensions that are also part of sustainable development.