Abstract
The human relationship with the environment is rooted in the social and symbiotic construction of culture. The “social” aspect is determined by power dynamics and legitimacy of specific individuals and groups and may or may not be rooted in self-interest, while the “symbiotic” is based in the relationship between culture and the environment that a given society inhabits. The symbiotic aspect of culture provides an initial understanding of “if” and “how” specific cultures and their societies incorporate stewardship responsibilities and seek to live sustainably, where sustainability is defined as the intertemporal balancing of human needs against the needs of other species and the ecosystem. To this end, historically, cultural norms have been framed by religion and/or spiritual practice and reflect the human role and purpose on the planet. Economic systems are typically outcomes of cultural norms and reflect human behavior relative to a specific environment. The challenge in the present period is in understanding that the present global economic framework that dictates social norms is a social construct and is representative of a specific worldview that encompasses assumptions of rational choice, insatiability, profit maximization, and ultimately the efficiency of the market system.
In this issue of Sustainability and Climate Change we address aspects of the underlying economic framework directly and indirectly, with the latter being evidenced in the outcomes and remediation discussions. We begin with a commentary specific to environmental equity, highlighting Jakarta, Indonesia, and also include a perspective on the role of education. Our book reviews cover the relationship between the law and emerging issues related to loss and damage specific to climate change and the role of insurance in climate change mitigation and adaptation.
Our articles provide an example of the breadth of discourse in sustainability and climate change. “Culture and Economic Justice in America” addresses the intangible aspects of social trust and its relationship with economics. This article highlights the significance of social norms in attaining sustainability. Two articles, “Local Climate Action Planning toward Larger Impact: Enhancing a Park System's Contributions by Examining Regional Efforts” and “Footprints in Action: How UVA Is Managing Its Sustainability Stewardship,” provide a review of application of sustainability frameworks, while in “Industrial Symbiosis: Expanding Waste Reuse in a Brazilian Network of Agricultural Companies,” the authors address the implementation of sustainability parameters in waste reduction.
Going forward, in 2023 we will provide discussion on the direct relationship between economics, culture, and social norms that will include interdisciplinary and multidisciplinary insights that include religion and anthropology. On behalf of our authors and stakeholders, I appreciate your interest in the Journal and welcome your thoughts, feedback, and submissions to future issues.