雅思阅读

📖 Reading Passage

The concept of 'sustainable development' has evolved significantly since its introduction in the 1987 Brundtland Report. Initially, it emphasized balancing economic growth with environmental protection for future generations. However, recent scholarship argues that this framework is inherently anthropocentric, prioritizing human needs over ecosystem integrity. Critics propose a shift towards 'ecological sustainability,' which recognizes the intrinsic value of non-human species and advocates for limiting consumption to planetary boundaries. This perspective challenges the assumption that technological innovation alone can solve environmental crises, suggesting instead that fundamental changes in societal values and economic structures are necessary. Proponents of ecological sustainability also highlight the importance of local knowledge and participatory governance, contrasting with top-down international policies that often dominate climate negotiations. The debate reflects a deeper tension between reformist and radical approaches to addressing global environmental challenges.