Why has sustainable development become a priority for many industrialized countries?(1 point)

Sustainable development is essential for countries seeking to improve the standard of living for their
citizens.
There are positive impacts of sustainable development for increasing mechanization in developing
economies.
Sustainable development is a cheaper way for countries to industrialize quickly, leading to more efficient
factories.
The negative effects of fossil fuels on the environment have become clearer over time

The negative effects of fossil fuels on the environment have become clearer over time

The correct answer is: The negative effects of fossil fuels on the environment have become clearer over time.

To arrive at this answer, we can eliminate the other options by reasoning:

1. Sustainable development is essential for countries seeking to improve the standard of living for their citizens: While this statement is true, it does not explain why sustainable development has become a priority for industrialized countries specifically.

2. There are positive impacts of sustainable development for increasing mechanization in developing economies: This statement suggests that sustainable development is beneficial for developing economies, but doesn't explain why industrialized countries prioritize it.

3. Sustainable development is a cheaper way for countries to industrialize quickly, leading to more efficient factories: This statement highlights the economic advantages of sustainable development but does not specifically address why industrialized countries prioritize it.

The best answer is the remaining option:

4. The negative effects of fossil fuels on the environment have become clearer over time: This statement is a key reason why sustainable development has become a priority for industrialized countries. As the understanding of climate change and its link to the burning of fossil fuels has deepened, countries have recognized the need to shift towards sustainable practices to mitigate the environmental damage caused by reliance on non-renewable energy sources.

The negative effects of fossil fuels on the environment have become clearer over time.