Global problems such as climate change, the damage to the ozone layer and the extinction of wildlife species, are now well known and are increasingly seen as threats to our very survival.  All of these problems are clearly linked to human activity.

People need development to provide them with decent housing, meaningful and rewarding jobs, education and to meet other basic needs.  However, we need to develop in a way that does not over burden natural systems or squander natural resources.  In other words there must be sustainable development to enable us to hand a better world to the next generation.

The Government's goal for sustainable development is defined as 'enabling all people throughout the world to satisfy their basic needs and enjoy a better quality of life, without compromising the quality of life of future generations'.

Key to achieving sustainable development is the integration of social, economic and environmental goals, as success in one is totally reliant on the others.  Good social conditions require strong economies, strong economies rely on environmental resources, and environmental conditions are inseparable from our quality of life. Despite this, each goal has often been pursued independently and success in one area has worked against others.

The mission of sustainable development is therefore to find ways of pursuing each goal so that it also supports all of the others.  This involves recognising that there are potential conflicts and searching for means to reduce these, challenging traditional ideas, considering alternative solutions and finding innovative ways of doing things.

• Sustainable Development Manager
  Name: Kate Hall
  Email: k.m.hall@dorsetcc.gov.uk
  Tel: 01305 224774
  Full details for Kate Hall