Sustainable development is significant because it seeks to balance economic growth, social equity, and environmental protection. This approach aims to meet the needs of the current generation without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs. It emphasizes the responsible use of resources to ensure that ecosystems remain healthy and productive. By integrating environmental sustainability into policymaking, sustainable development can help mitigate issues like climate change, biodiversity loss, and resource depletion. The goal is to create a resilient society that thrives within the Earth's ecological limits.