Sustainable Development

Sustainable development has been a topic of discussion at national and local levels for the better part of twenty years. This has focused on the most common definition of sustainable development , as development that meets the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs. This is easy to subscribe to, but harder to put into practice.

It is about using resources in a way that is responsible and equitable. It means being fair both to our contemporaries and our successors. We should try to ensure that resources are shared equitably today; the more we succeed in that, the less likely is there to be tension and conflict. It also means ensuring that we leave resources and opportunities available to our successors. On a day-to-day level, it is about incomes and money, health, housing and education, a safe and pleasant environment, how we use and manage biodiversity and access to transport, leisure and other services: and about these areas working in balance rather than in competition for resources.

Generally, people have a natural desire to improve their quality of life. Sustainability means that, in doing so, progress in (for example) the quality of jobs, housing, transport and amenities is shared by all and does not come at the expense of the environment or earth’s resources. Tomorrow is important, in terms of the economy, communities and the environment but a sustainable approach also offers benefits for today. A recent example of what can be achieved is that of reducing waste within Council premises and lowering council expenditure. Another is using Shetland’s environmental quality to create a competitive advantage within the global market place.

From Bruntland Commission, 1987

In January 2006, the Convenor, Councillor Sandy Cluness, signed the Scottish Climate Change Declaration on behalf of the Shetland Islands Council. By signing this declaration, the Council acknowledges that climate change is happening and beginning to impact on people’s lives, and that everyone has a part to play in lessening future changes and adapting to changes already underway.

In December 2006, the Council approved a Sustainable Development Implementation Plan, including its commitment to Climate Change.

Policy
Shetland Islands Council
Town Hall
Hillhead
Lerwick
Shetland
ZE1 0HB

Phone: (01595) 744537 or 01595 74 3728
Email: policy@shetland.gov.uk