ISSUES

THE PRINCIPLES OF SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT

VALUE SYSTEM ENABLERS

Sustainable development is not just a way to ensure that human needs will continue to be met. In its deeper meaning the concept has ethical, moral and spiritual connotations that requires attitudinal and behavioural changes. The success of sustainable development will ultimately depend on the decisions individuals and groups make regarding their own behaviour. The value system enablers to support sustainable development can be found in the following:

Religious beliefs that encourage tolerance, respect and compassion.
Spiritual values that encourage harmony between humans and their physical environment.
Cultural heritage such as the concept of Ubuntu and the recognition of family relationships and obligations that encompasses more than the traditional, Western nuclear family.
Community behaviour that supports a shared ethical system and follow a common vision of sustainable development.
Personal codes of conduct that encourage the individual to take responsibility for his or her actions.
A society that encourage and enable creativity and innovation, and actively embrace change and difference.

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