Introduction As most people would agree, the term development is associated with positive well-being of the people and a brighter future. Nevertheless, any form of change in the society requires informed judgment regardless of whether it is positive or negative. This is because, what the world may consider being good today, is likely to be disregarded in the future (Pearce, Barbier & Markandya 1990). In most occasions throughout history, economists have always used per capita income as the principal indicator of development in a given state or country. On the other hand, a situation where income distribution is skewed may not be considered to be developing even when the income of some people is increasing while the poor are becoming poorer. According to the United Nations Development Program, development mainly refers to a process where the people’s opportunities of choice are increased. In this regard, ecologists view all processes, which threaten the environment as negative even if they serve people profitably. Of significance is the fact that development aims at improving the welfare of people in some way. Sustainable development In defining the concept of sustainable development, the issue of time is crucial, especially with regard to an existing situation and a projected outcome after a given period of time. It can, therefore, be defined as a pathway, along which maximization of the welfare of the people does not negatively affect the future generation (OECD 2001, p. 7). Other scholars describe it as development that can be continued for a long period of time. In order to achieve this status, it is essential for leaders to eliminate factors, which are responsible for the depletion of resources and environmental dilapidation. In addition, the process requires the society to acquire certain goods, which augment economic development, including those achieved by an effective ecosystem, a united society, and a healthy environment. Furthermore, sustainable development permits the flexibility to react towards future development shocks, even when their occurrence time and effects are not certain (OECD 2001, p. 8). It is worth noting that the notion of sustainable development has received a wider application in the field of politics. In this case, it encompasses the understanding of human needs and striking a balance between economic efficiency priorities, environmental protection and social development. Also, it focuses on projecting the impact of current human activities in order to develop possible mitigation strategies. Similarly, it underscores the need of appreciating global corporation among countries in order to realize viable solutions for sustainable future outcomes (Pearce, Barbier & Markandya 1990). As a result, these elements have contributed towards making sustainable development to be a major goal for both domestic and international formulation of policies. Background As it shall be seen later under history, sustainable development rose to the global arena during the “Earth Summit” that was held in Rio de Janeiro in the year 1992. During the summit, the United Nations presented a blueprint, which outlined the way-forward in defining and saving the planet. From this stage, the UN agreed to use the phrase in defining the equilibrium be