Both options provided highlight important reasons why sustainable development has become a priority for many industrialized countries. However, they focus on different aspects of the issue.
A) Sustainable development is essential for countries seeking to improve the standard of living for their citizens. This option emphasizes the social and economic dimensions of sustainable development. Industrialized countries recognize that sustainable practices can lead to long-term benefits, such as better health outcomes, improved access to resources, and enhanced quality of life for their populations.
B) The negative effects of fossil fuels on the environment have become clearer over time. This option points to the environmental concerns that have driven many countries to prioritize sustainable development. As the impact of climate change, pollution, and habitat destruction has become more evident, there has been a growing acknowledgment of the need to transition away from fossil fuels and towards more sustainable energy sources and practices.
In summary, both A and B are valid reasons for the shift toward sustainable development; however, option B closely addresses the urgent environmental challenges that have catalyzed this movement in many industrialized countries.