As an expert in the field of international development and sustainability, I have a deep understanding of the global efforts aimed at fostering a more equitable and sustainable future. Let me provide you with a comprehensive overview of Agenda 21 and the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.
Agenda 21 was a non-binding action plan of the United Nations with regard to sustainable development. It emerged from the **United Nations Conference on Environment and Development (UNCED)**, also known as the Earth Summit, held in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, in 1992. The plan detailed a comprehensive blueprint of action to be taken globally, nationally, and locally by organizations of the United Nations, governments, and major groups in every area where humans impact on the environment.

The key areas of action under Agenda 21 include:
- Promoting sustainable development through economic growth, social development, and environmental protection.
- Combating poverty as an integral part of sustainable development.
- Protecting all natural resources for present and future generations.
- **Promoting the protection of the environment** for the benefit of all.
- **Encouraging the participation of all concerned citizens** at the relevant levels.

Agenda 21 was divided into four main sections:

1. Social and Economic Dimensions: Addressing issues like poverty, consumption, and demographic dynamics.
2. **Conservation and Management of Resources for Development**: Covering topics such as water resources, oceans, and deforestation.

3. Strengthening the Role of Major Groups: Emphasizing the role of various stakeholders including women, children, indigenous people, non-governmental organizations, and local authorities.

4. Means of Implementation: Focusing on financial mechanisms, transfer of technology, and scientific and technological cooperation.

Now, moving on to the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, which is a successor to Agenda 21. It was adopted by all United Nations Member States in 2015 as a part of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The 2030 Agenda is a plan of action for people, planet, and prosperity, seeking to end poverty, protect the planet, and ensure prosperity for all through a universal, integrated, and transformative vision.

The core elements of the 2030 Agenda include:
- **A universal, integrated, and transformative vision for sustainable development**: It is applicable to all countries and all stakeholders.
- Leave no one behind: The commitment to reach the furthest behind first.
- Eradicating poverty in all its forms and dimensions.
- **Achieving gender equality and empowering all women and girls**.
- **Upholding human rights and ensuring inclusiveness** for all.
- **Taking urgent action to combat climate change** and its impacts.

The Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) are the heart of the 2030 Agenda, comprising 17 interconnected goals that are intricately linked to one another. These goals range from ending poverty and hunger to addressing climate change, achieving gender equality, and ensuring access to quality education, clean water, and sanitation for all.

The **High-level Political Forum on Sustainable Development (HLPF)** is the central UN platform for the follow-up and review of the 2030 Agenda. It meets annually under the auspices of the UN's Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC) and provides a space for stakeholders to discuss and review progress on the SDGs.

In conclusion, both Agenda 21 and the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development represent significant milestones in the global pursuit of sustainable development. They provide a roadmap for collective action to address the complex challenges facing humanity and the planet, emphasizing the importance of a holistic and integrated approach to development.

read more >>

The High-level Political Forum on Sustainable Development is the central UN platform for the follow-up and review of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development adopted at the United Nations Sustainable Development Summit on 25 September 2015. Preamble. This Agenda is a plan of action for people, planet and prosperity.read more >>