The Western Cape Education Department (WCED), respThe World Commission on Environment and Development (WCED), also known as the Brundtland Commission, was established in 1983 by the United Nations General Assembly. Its primary aim was to address global environmental challenges and promote sustainable development. The commission was named after its chairperson, Gro Harlem Brundtland, a former Prime Minister of Norway and a renowned advocate for environmental and developmental issues.
WCED in the Global Context
The creation of the WCED was driven by growing concerns about the environmental impact of human activities and the need to reconcile economic development with environmental preservation. The commission’s pivotal 1987 report, Our Common Future, popularized the concept of sustainable development, defining it as development that “meets the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs.” This report laid the foundation for international policies, including the Earth Summit in 1992 and subsequent sustainable development goals (SDGs).
South Africa’s Involvement
In the South African context, the WCED’s principles have played a critical role in shaping the country’s approach to sustainable development. South Africa has actively engaged with the goals outlined by the commission, particularly in balancing its rich natural resources with the challenges of economic disparity and environmental degradation. However, the commission itself was not specifically established in South Africa but operates as a global entity.
Legacy of WCED
The WCED’s work continues to influence global and local policies. Its integration of economic, environmental, and social dimensions into a unified framework remains vital for nations like South Africa, where development must navigate the intersection of environmental preservation and economic growth.
For further details, you can refer to the United Nations’ official page on the WCED.