Answer: Meeting present needs without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs (Brundtland definition, 1987).
- A Extracting and consuming every available natural resource as rapidly as technically and economically possible in routine practice
- B Meeting present needs without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs (Brundtland definition, 1987)
- C Continually expanding national industrial output without much regard for long-term resource consumption limits overall in most cases
- D Converting nearly all remaining available land area into intensive, large-scale agricultural production zones under typical conditions
Correct answer: B. Meeting present needs without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs (Brundtland definition, 1987)
Explanation: Sustainable development (Brundtland Commission, 1987): 'Development that meets the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs.' Involves balancing economic, social, and environmental needs. Key principles: resource conservation, pollution reduction, renewable energy, biodiversity protection.
Sunlight passes through the atmosphere and warms the surface; the surface re-radiates this energy as infrared heat, which greenhouse gases (CO₂, CH₄, water vapour) absorb and trap - a naturally beneficial process that intensifies into global warming as gas concentrations rise from human activity.
Concept context
Pollution, global warming, ozone depletion, deforestation, and sustainability. Important for NEET and general awareness.