How is the concept of sustainable development represented in major U.S. newspapers? Are academic and activists' critiques part of the media message? Using a systematic qualitative analysis, the author examines the themes and sources of newspaper articles from 1987 to 1997. Sustainable development is presented almost exclusively within an economic growth paradigm that assumes that economic growth, technology, and northern expertise are the most effective way to achieve development. The activists and academics that are used as sources do not present alternatives to the dominant development discourse. Instead, the few alternatives that are presented are by the authors of commentaries who are not identified with environmental activist groups.