A Principle-based Approach for the Evaluation of Sustainable Development

Abstract

In order for sustainability assessments to realise their full potential, there is a need for criteria against which sustainable development might be evaluated. In this article, we employ a principle-based theoretical approach to develop a framework of sustainable development criteria. From an analysis of the different views of the concept of sustainable development, we arrive at two main principles that might guide assessments for sustainable development: resilience and justice. These two principles are explored using the John Rawls's justice theory, and the ideas of C.S. Holling in relation to resilience. We also consider the value to the framework of the concept of efficiency. Finally, the paper concludes with a proposal for the application of this framework within sustainability assessment processes based upon Participatory Integrated Assessment.