Concept notes: Agenda 21 is a comprehensive plan of action to be taken globally, nationally, and locally by organizations of the United Nations, governments, and major groups in every area in which humans impact the environment. It aims to achieve sustainable development by addressing issues such as poverty, environmental degradation, and economic development.
Explanation: Agenda 21 is a comprehensive plan of action adopted at the United Nations Conference on Environment and Development (UNCED) held in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, in 1992. It is a blueprint for action to be taken globally, nationally, and locally by organizations of the United Nations, governments, and major groups in every area in which humans impact the environment. The primary goal of Agenda 21 is to achieve sustainable development, which is defined as development that meets the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs.
Sustainable development is a multifaceted concept that encompasses three main pillars: economic development, social equity, and environmental protection. Agenda 21 addresses these pillars through various chapters that cover topics such as poverty eradication, health, education, sustainable agriculture, energy, and biodiversity conservation. The agenda recognizes that poverty and disease are significant barriers to sustainable development and thus aims to combat them as part of its broader goals.
The agenda is structured into four main sections: Social and Economic Dimensions, Conservation and Management of Resources for Development, Strengthening the Role of Major Groups, and Means of Implementation. Each section contains specific chapters that outline strategies and actions to be taken in various sectors to achieve sustainable development.
While analyzing previously used resources and their impact on current society is an important aspect of sustainable development, it is not explicitly stated as a primary goal of Agenda 21. Instead, the agenda focuses on future-oriented goals such as poverty reduction, health improvement, and environmental sustainability.
In conclusion, the correct answer is (D) Only (A) & (B), as Agenda 21 aims to achieve both combatting poverty and disease and global sustainable development. These goals are central to the agenda and reflect the comprehensive approach to sustainable development that Agenda 21 seeks to implement.