Basic Concepts and Principles in Sustainable Development

This book introduces students to the basics in sustainable development as an academic discipline from a social science perspective. It will complement courses that deal with natural and built environment, planning and management, all of which addresses, either explicitly or implicitly, development and sustainability issues. Principal issues tackled include theoretical definitions on development, the concept of sustainable development and its implementation mechanisms. Sustainable development policy planning, decision making and implementation with reference to sectors such as human settlement and housing, industry and agriculture, health, education, energy and water are discussed. Changes that industrial development and technological advancement have brought about to living patterns and the environment and transition from the millennium development goals (MDGs) to sustainable development goals (SDGs) are also assessed.