FORUM: A Context for Participation in Sustainable Development

Area of Science:

• Environmental Science
• Systems Theory
• Sociology

Background:

• Existing literature offers various sustainability definitions.
• An evolutionary framework provides a more meaningful perspective on sustainability.
• Complex adaptive systems (CAS) offer a novel lens for understanding sustainable development.

Purpose of the Study:

• To discuss mechanistic and evolutionary frameworks for sustainable development.
• To explore the application of the complex adaptive systems framework to sustainability.
• To advocate for the necessity of public involvement in sustainable development.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of sustainability definitions.
• Conceptual analysis of evolutionary and mechanistic frameworks.
• Application of complex adaptive systems theory to sustainable development.

Main Results:

• An evolutionary framework is proposed as the most meaningful definition of sustainability.
• Complex adaptive systems theory provides new insights into sustainable development.
• Proactive public involvement is identified as crucial for addressing sustainability challenges.

Conclusions:

• Sustainable development requires understanding evolution and adaptation within complex adaptive systems.
• Bottom-up public participation must be actively nurtured.
• Designing and implementing appropriate processes is essential for enabling public participation in sustainability efforts.