The concept requires measures that are different than those used by standard economic theory. While the standard economic theory is focused on economic growth and measures in terms of GDP per capita, sustainable development theory adds that although growth is important, the preservation of the ecological base of the economy is also important. Thus water systems, soils, natural ecosystems, fisheries and forests should be maintained. Scholars have come up with techniques which take into account such factors.

For production the economy needs renewable and non-renewable resources. Sustainable development puts the emphasis on using as little non-renewable resources as possible. The concept of sustainability also implies some limitations to macroeconomic scale. It tries to set a maximum level of growth based on the concept of carrying capacity of an area.

The issue of energy is closely linked with the concept of sustainable development. Together with population and agriculture, energy production and consumption is a very important challenge to sustainable development. For sustainable development the challenge is to replace non-renewable energy sources with renewable ones. Biomass – which includes plants, wood and animal waste – is an important energy source. Also solar and wind energy are sources with great potential to be used in the future. Currently, however, renewable energy sources make up less then 10% of energy supply in industrialized countries. As far as the demand side is concerned sustainability requires much more efficient energy use and reduced consumption.

Sustainable development is prominent in the Kosovo Development Strategy. The latter's long term goal is: Sustainable development in a democratic, peaceful and socially cohesive state underpinned by the rule of law and inclusive of all minorities in an EU integration context. “Economic infrastructure development and environment protection” is one of its Key priorities under the Private sector development Strategic pillar.

Also, environmental sustainability is one of the key goals among the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs). The Kosovo assembly has committed itself to achieving the MDGs, which is important for its familiarization with how the environment is essential for the achievement of all the MDGs.

There is apparent good will to try to achieve sustainable development in Kosovo. However, we have seen little action towards the achievement of that goal. The concept of sustainable development is relatively new to the Kosovo leadership and their public commitment and personal convictions may not always match.

Coal and lignite serve as the absolute primary source of energy in Kosovo although there has been a slight decrease in their relative use. The second most important source of energy is oil and its derivates. The use of oil and its derivates has seen a slight increase. Biomass, namely wood energy is the third most important energy source in Kosovo and its use has remained steady. Natural gas ranks fourth as an energy source in Kosovo and it has also been used at a steady rate.