Introduction

This book brings together a unique cohort of scholars and practitioners who examine the practical meaning of sustainability for science and for policy in interaction with wider publics in the face of global change. The contributions that follow address the transformations required in mental framings, institutional settings, and research practices to support the vast societal transition towards sustainable development. The interdisciplinary background of the authors means that the concepts, arguments, and ideas advanced in this volume are not based on one single approach or scientific perspective, but draw from a wide variety of personal and professional experiences. Most of the chapters in this book are built on the lessons learnt from major international research efforts on environmental issues and sustainability, in areas like community-based resource conservation, climate change, water, or land planning. Because of the pragmatic orientation of this book, which focuses on articulating an in-depth reflection for the implementation of concrete changes and decisions, we have explicitly avoided excessive academism. Our main goal is to contribute to the discussion for a practical and positive vision of science, policy, and public interactions in the face of global environmental change and unsustainable development.