Relearning our wants and needs for sustainable development

Abstract

This commentary chapter considers the possible contribution of the wide application of the differences of the "wants" and "needs" concepts in propelling the sustainable development agenda. Following a review of literature that supports the notion of continuous change in economic, environmental and social standards, the commentary argues that the notion of the future we want has outlived its usefulness. Instead, it suggests a transition to a new concept of the future we need, concluding that sustainable development is a need and not a want. This transition is important in addressing problems associated with the differences in the development status of economies and continents in the context of engaging with the sustainable agenda.