Tracing the Journey of Sustainability Practices, the Historical Evolution Through the Industrial Revolutions

David Mhlanga
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David Mhlanga: College of Business and Economics, The University of Johannesburg

Chapter Chapter 2 in Sustainable Finance and Business in Sub-Saharan Africa, 2024, pp 15-29 from Springer

Abstract: Abstract This chapter explores the rich tapestry of sustainability practices, tracing their origins and evolution through historical contexts. It begins by exploring ancient practices of sustainable living, where communities across the globe, from the terraced farming of the Incas to the water conservation techniques of ancient Middle Eastern civilizations, inherently understood the importance of living in harmony with nature. As the narrative progresses, this chapter examines the Industrial Revolution’s profound impact on sustainability, highlighting how rapid industrialization and urbanization posed new challenges to environmental preservation and social equity. The discussion then transitions to the pivotal moments of the twentieth century, including the publication of Rachel Carson’s Silent Spring and the first Earth Day, which marked a growing awareness and activism around environmental issues. This sets the stage for examining the contemporary framework of sustainability that emerged in response, focusing on integrating ecological, economic, and social dimensions to achieve a balanced and sustainable future. Through this exploration, this chapter underscores the importance of learning from historical practices and mistakes to inform current sustainability efforts. It concludes by reflecting on the role of technological advancements, policymaking, and community engagement in shaping the future of sustainability practices. This historical perspective enriches our understanding of how sustainability practices have evolved. It highlights the importance of integrating these practices into our daily lives and policies to ensure a resilient and sustainable world for future generations.

Keywords: Historical evolution; Sustainability practices (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2024
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Persistent link: https://EconPapers.repec.org/RePEc:spr:sprchp:978-3-031-74050-3_2

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DOI: 10.1007/978-3-031-74050-3_2

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