Sustainability research in the Upper Rhine Region : concepts and case studies

Sustainability research in the upper Rhine Region concepts and case studies

The concept of sustainability takes different meanings, depending on the discipline, and on research and social practices. It can be associated with new technologies, with societal changes and innovations, and with new modes of governance. Sustainability has increasingly integrated both individual and social group lifestyles and values. There is thus increasing awareness on topics related to environmental protection and the ecological transition, as well as on new economic challenges, with marked differences from one territory to another. Associated issues and challenges also include a dimension of general responsibility, and bear upon the common good. Hence, « sustainability » is directly linked to international, interdisciplinary and intercultural cooperation.

This book showcases recent work of scientists who participated in the International Conference on Sustainability in Strasbourg in September 2018. It provides a unique and timely interdisciplinary perspective on the status of sustainability research in the different territories of the Upper Rhine Region, in an arguably key moment of increasing awareness on sustainability issues in society at large. Authors examine a variety of theoretical and cognitive dimensions of sustainability, and relevant methodologies for analysis. Concrete and reflexive studies at the level of the Upper Rhine Region are also presented. Collectively, these diverse contributions offer a vivid and global overview of this highly topical field.