4.7.2 (HL)—Sustainability and poverty

Poverty can increase pressure on local resources when households lack secure alternatives, while environmental degradation can reduce health, productivity and future income. Sustainable development therefore needs both resource protection and policies that expand capability and access.

For example, efficient clean cooking can reduce indoor air pollution and fuel demand while improving health and time available for work or education. The result depends on affordability, institutions and local fit: an environmental label or a new technology alone does not prove poverty has been reduced sustainably.