The concept of 'sustainable development' has evolved significantly since its popularization in the 1987 Brundtland Report. Initially framed as a balance between economic growth and environmental protection, it now encompasses social equity as a third pillar. Critics argue that the term has become so broad that it loses operational meaning, allowing corporations to label any activity as 'green'. However, recent research suggests that measurable indicators, such as carbon footprint and income disparity metrics, enable more rigorous assessment. For instance, a 2021 study found that cities adopting explicit sustainability targets reduced per-capita emissions by 12% over five years, compared to a 3% reduction in cities without such targets. This demonstrates that while the concept is contested, its practical application can yield tangible outcomes when linked to specific, verifiable goals.
❓ Según el pasaje, ¿cuál es una crítica importante al 'desarrollo sostenible'?
A. A) Se centra demasiado en el crecimiento económico a expensas del medio ambiente.
B. B) Carece de un significado preciso, lo que facilita su uso indebido por parte de las empresas.
C. C) Ignora la equidad social como un componente clave.
D. D) No ha sido actualizado desde el Informe Brundtland de 1987.
✅ 正确答案
B) It lacks precise meaning, making it easy for misuse by companies.
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