Sustainable Development: a 360° Approach

By "sustainable development", we mean "development that meets the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs".

A sustainable society is one that endures and thrives, offering a high quality of life for all its inhabitants in a fair and equitable way. A society where everyone's needs are met, today and tomorrow, while respecting the limits of the ecosystems and natural resources on which all life depends. A society where citizens retain democratic control over their development choices.

To address these challenges in an increasingly complex world, it is essential for society's stakeholders to develop the capacity to manage this complexity. Sustainable development must, in its choices and practices, adopt a comprehensive, systemic, 360° approach that connects knowledge with the perspectives and initiatives of different stakeholders.

This means bringing together four dimensions, or "4Ps", simultaneously and harmoniously: social (People), environmental (Planet), prosperity, particularly economic prosperity (Prosperity), and governance (Participation).

  • People

Social and ethical responsibility, accessibility for as many people as possible, social equity, health, quality of life, social connections and community...

  • Planet

Impact on the environment and quality of life, climate & greenhouse gases, efficient use of energy, respect for nature, biodiversity, waste and pollution, responsible land use...

  • Participation

Transparency and awareness, consideration of the needs and aspirations of all stakeholders, and their participation in the decision-making process...

  • Prosperity

Whole-life cost approach and long-term economic viability, performance at the collective rather than solely individual level, innovative financing, non-monetary exchanges and resources...

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The impact of a behaviour, project, decision or policy on these dimensions is assessed both across space - here and elsewhere, with every person on the planet having the same human right to the Earth's resources - and over time - present generations have the right to use the Earth's resources, but also a duty to preserve them over the long term for future generations.

The Foundation believes that alternatives that contribute to sustainable development must be acceptable, viable and supported by the public, both in their substance and in the way they are implemented. Without this, they have little chance of being adopted over the long term and will not bring about the desired change. This approach, which is an integral part of the Foundation's mission, aims to ensure that everyone can be involved and valued in shaping and building future perspectives.