The modern history of sustainability began after the Second World War. The original approach by the UN in 1945–1950 was dominated by the Charter and UDHR and referred to the standard of living (Sect. 6.1). During 1950–1984 came about the realization of both the power and responsibility of large companies, CSR emerged, the modern environmental movement arose along with the shareholder theory (Sect. 6.2). In 1984–1991, a more balanced and holistic approach prevailed under the auspices of the stakeholder theory and the Brundtland Report and sustainability took on a global and anti-poverty dimension (Sect. 6.3). In 1991–2015, the endeavours of the UN became followed up by businesses looking for a more pragmatic and win-win oriented CSR version, CSV, as well by the EU in its determination to embed sustainability in its political and legal framework. Sustainability became a multi-responsibility phenomenon (Sect. 6.4). The latest stage in the modern history of sustainability was launched by the Agenda 2030 and Paris Climate Agreement. The EU, in particular the European Commissions under the presidency of Ursula von der Leyen, focusses on sustainability and generates strategic and legislative instruments to support sustainability and CSR, in spite of crises often challenging settings, and a less than warm reception (Sect. 6.5).