In the latter half of nineteen seventies the phrase “Sustainable Society” appeared in academic circles and scientific writings.

Turning points come, civilizations adjust, believe and values change, adversities come and go but it is important that life processes continue. We are probably approaching a turning point. We can no longer follow the pattern of development which we have so far been following.

We shall have to change our ways, modify our believes and values so that our society should at least be able to sustain itself on long term basis. No one can argue against to desirability of sustainability. But how it would be achieved and what would be the structure of sustainable society? There is considerable disagreement among scientific circles regarding these aspects.

In 1983, United Nations General Assembly established a “World Commission on Environment and Development”. In its report entitled “Our Common Future” submitted in 1987, the Commission emphasized Sustainable Development as a key to the problems of environment Sustainable development was defined as the development which provides for the needs of the present generation without compromising the ability of the future generations to meet their own needs.

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The concept of Sustainable Development can mobilize broader political consensus within and among nations. It is a broad concept of social and economic progress. It requires political reforms, access to knowledge and resources and a more just and equitable distribution of wealth both within and between the nations.