The concept of sustainable development has evolved significantly since its popularization in the 1987 Brundtland Report. Initially focused on environmental protection, it now encompasses economic viability and social equity. However, critics argue that the term has become so broad as to lose its analytical precision, often used to legitimize conflicting agendas. For instance, some corporations employ 'greenwashing' to present environmentally harmful practices as sustainable, while governments may prioritize economic growth over ecological limits. This ambiguity underscores the need for more rigorous frameworks that integrate measurable ecological indicators with socioeconomic factors, ensuring that sustainability is not merely a rhetorical device but a practical guide for policy-making.
❓ According to the passage, what is a major criticism of the concept of sustainable development?
A. It focuses too much on economic growth at the expense of the environment.
B. It has become too vague and is often misused to justify opposing actions.
C. It ignores the role of corporations in environmental degradation.
D. It lacks support from international organizations like the UN.
✅ Correct Answer
B. B. It has become too vague and is often misused to justify opposing actions.
