Integrating policy to achieve a harmonized sustainability model: A multidisciplinary synthesis and conceptual framework. (1st September 2022)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Smidt, Samuel J.; Brophy, Trista; Bi, Xiang; Mook, Anne; Adams, Damian C.; Beck, Shelby M.
• Is Part Of: Journal of environmental management. Volume 317(2022)
• Publication Date: 2022-09-01
• Subjects: Sustainability -- Capitalism -- Policy -- Economics -- Natural resources -- Environmental harmony; Environmental policy -- Periodicals; Environmental management -- Periodicals; Environment -- Periodicals; Ecology -- Periodicals; 363.705
• DOI: 10.1016/j.jenvman.2022.115314
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0301-4797

Abstract

Abstract: While the concept of environmental sustainability has steadily grown over the past thirty years, little progress has been made in unifying the efforts of the entities most involved: society, the environment, the economy, and governmental policy. This synthesis integrates across disciplines to outline the need for a harmonized sustainability model to align disparate environmental objectives. Specifically, this study highlights the disconnect between policy and capitalistic economies regarding environmental sustainability. We then provide a framework for an updated sustainability model and offer pathways toward an improved state of environmental sustainability. Notable contributions include the development of a dynamic, harmonized sustainability model derived from basic supply and demand curves that functions for both the consumption and disposal of resources at multiple scales. Graphical abstract: Image 1 Highlights: The role of policy is currently excluded from major sustainability frameworks. Economic and political sustainability objectives remain disconnected. We propose a harmonized sustainability framework that includes policy. The proposed framework functions at multiple scales and includes waste.