Poverty remains the main challenge facing the countries that will be
the home of 85% of the world's population in the decades to come. Some
2.7 billion people worldwide continue to subsist on less than US$2 per
day. The challenge facing the global community is to eradicate extreme
poverty and to foster economic development that benefits all while
preserving natural habitats and biodiversity. Business is a core human
activity, and it will be instrumental in bringing about sustainable
development.
This report shows how companies can contribute to global sustainable
development through their core businesses in a way that is profitable
for the companies and good for development. It offers a business
perspective on key challenges and opportunities for the development of
low-income countries, as well as key messages for companies and
governments on how to promote sustainable business solutions that
benefit the poor and the societies and environments in which they live.
The issues selected are not exhaustive, but they reflect both
traditional areas for development actors and business. The issues are
Ecosystems, Education and Training, Energy, Enterprise Development,
Financial Flows, Governance, Health, Mobility, Trade, and Water.
Organization:
World Business Council for Sustainable Development