Climate Change Scenario in Sustainability and Existential Risks

Abstract

Initial part of this chapter provides an overview on conceptual framework of sustainability based on sustainable development policy in balancing the need for development and environmental conservation. It discusses structural and functional diversity relationship of natural ecosystem functioning and environmental filters that determine its services sustainably. It follows with brief historical perspectives of eco-development initiated by the United Nations and other relevant agencies that leads to the promulgation of the “17-Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) in 2018 are also highlighted. Subsequently it discusses on the existential and potential future risks of humanity with special reference to the current and future potential impact of global climate change as consequence of energy transition from fossil fuel to renewable resources. The chapter ends with way forward with enlightenment optimism in achieving the goal of Paris agreement through technological advancement, policy formulation and commitment by the respective countries.