Sustainable Development, Environment and the Economy
This domain tests sustainable development as the balance of economic growth, social well-being and environmental protection, the main environmental statutes, and basic economic indicators.
Core concepts
- The 2030 Agenda sets 17 Sustainable Development Goals, integrating economic, social and environmental aims.
- The National Environmental Act No. 47 of 1980, amended in 1988 and 2000, created the Central Environmental Authority and the environmental approval process.
- Projects with significant impacts require an Environmental Impact Assessment; smaller ones may need an Initial Environmental Examination. Approval follows public notice and a comment period.
- Pollution control licences are issued for discharges, and other statutes cover wildlife, forests and marine pollution.
Economy and environment
Economic indicators include GDP, inflation, unemployment and the trade balance. Sustainable growth depends on renewable energy, waste reduction, efficient water use, soil conservation and disaster risk management by bodies such as the Disaster Management Centre and the National Building Research Organisation.
Worked example. A company proposes a large hotel adjoining a wetland. Reasoning: the scale and location trigger an Environmental Impact Assessment under the National Environmental Act; the CEA prescribes terms of reference, the draft is open for public comment, and approval may carry conditions. Construction without approval is an offence, and courts can order restoration.
Traps that cost marks
- Defining sustainable development as environmental protection only.
- Confusing the Central Environmental Authority with the Department of Wildlife Conservation.
- Assuming an EIA is needed for every small project.
- Mixing up IEE and EIA thresholds.