The concept of sustainable development has evolved significantly since its popularization in the 1987 Brundtland Report. Initially, it focused primarily on environmental protection alongside economic growth. However, contemporary interpretations emphasize the integration of social equity, such as access to education and healthcare, as a fundamental pillar. This shift reflects a growing recognition that environmental degradation often disproportionately affects marginalized communities. Consequently, policy frameworks now advocate for inclusive decision-making processes, ensuring that vulnerable populations have a voice in resource management. Yet, critics argue that the term has become so broad that it risks losing practical meaning, allowing governments and corporations to label unsustainable projects as 'green' without substantive change. This tension between idealistic goals and pragmatic implementation remains a central challenge in global governance.
❓ According to the passage, what is a major criticism of the modern concept of sustainable development?
A. It focuses too much on economic growth and ignores environmental issues.
B. It has become too vague and can be misused to justify unsustainable activities.
C. It excludes social equity considerations from policy frameworks.
D. It relies too heavily on the original 1987 definition without adaptation.
✅ 正确答案
It has become too vague and can be misused to justify unsustainable activities.
IELTS Reading Tips
Skim the questions first, underline keywords, then locate in the passage
Watch for paraphrasing; correct answers are often reworded
Be wary of absolute statements (all, always, never) — usually wrong
Pay attention to content after transition words (however, but, yet)
Manage time: about 20 minutes per passage; skip difficult questions first