Sustainable development is balancing current needs with future well-being, focusing on economic growth, social inclusion, and environmental protection (the three pillars) to ensure resources and living standards aren't compromised for generations to come. Popularized by the Brundtland Report, it's now a global framework, guiding the UN's 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), but faces challenges like climate change, inequality, and implementation gaps, requiring integrated policies, stakeholder involvement, and shifts in consumption towards renewable energy and less waste.