How to Achieve Sustainable Development

Aimed at practitioners and students in environmental studies, development, economics and geography, this book systematically investigates how sustainable development can be achieved at the local and global level. Instead of problems, it focuses on practical solutions to take yourself, in your community, and in your career.

Based on the latest scientific research, case studies and voices from the Global North and South, the book is divided into five key sections. It reviews why business as usual is no longer an option; how to engage with governance, finance and collective action; where transformation hotspots for achieving sustainable development exist; how local change happens in sustainable development; and finally, what happens next. Chapters take a deep dive into improved human capabilities, just economies, sustainable food and energy production, gender inequality and resilience. It moves beyond merely recognising the challenges faced in achieving the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), instead focusing on real-world avenues to address these, beyond the 2030 timeline. Each solution is framed within this context and promotes taking complexity seriously, as opposed to ignoring it.

Alongside the book, appendix material provides guidance for personal action, and digital resources offer up-to-date opportunities for further engagement.

Author Biography

Samuel T. Ledermann is an Associate Professor of Practice in the International Development Studies program at the Elliott School of International Affairs at George Washington University, USA. He is an economic geographer with an extensive background in sustainable agricultural development in Africa.