This paper is primarily a critical analysis of the social sustainability assumptions of green growth. It examines the extent to which the overall approach and assumptions inherent in the green growth model allow it to adequately address key social sustainability underpinnings of sustainable development e.g. multi-dimensional poverty, inequality and social justice. In so doing, the potential for green growth to deliver in important ways for poor and marginalized individuals is also considered. The false dichotomy that may unintentionally be created between economic efficiency and social equity considerations is investigated in further depth. Employing a social justice lens informed by the existing socio-environmental and socio-ecological literature, explicit and inexplicit synergies, trade-offs and conflicts are explored. A largely theoretical review, it will also be complemented by analysis of one of the more well-known sustainable development public policy responses to-date: biofuels. Advancing a more multidimensional theoretical approach to the longstanding problem of sustainable development i.e. equal priority to and greater equity of benefits across all three dimensions of sustainable development, it argues that a truly transformative green growth approach must consider the “who” as much as the “how many”.
Sustainable transport systems are crucial for underpinning the economic performance and prosperity of nations. They are also critical for tackling global climate change and reducing local air pollution. This is particularly the case in the world’s urban areas.
This paper sketches the profile of the changing ‘green growth/economy architecture’ at the global, national, corporate and local levels. It finds that the project of ‘green growth’ continues to gain political momentum, attract new investment and draw in new players.
This report discusses the opportunities presented by the Brazilian Amapá State government’s intention to make the transition to a green economy.