Sustainable Models
Harmonist Sustainability and Capitalism: A Tri-spherical Model
Paper Presentation in a Themed Session Silvia Rode
The 19th Century Harmonists practiced a communal socialism in the pursuit of the American capitalist dream, while anticipating the second coming of Christ. To sustain and realize the perfect society, the Harmonists established a tri-spherical model which enabled them to negotiate between the inner communal socialist, external venture capitalist, and an over-arching spiritual millennialism. This study explores these issues.
Unlocking Sustainable Futures through Enhanced Public-private Collaboration in Industrial Carbon Capture and Storage
Paper Presentation in a Themed Session Ikechukwu Nwabufo, Suresh Chandran
The urgent need to combat climate change has moved the industrial Carbon Capture and Storage conversation into the spotlight. Carbon Capture and Storage (CCS) involves recovering carbon dioxide from fossil-fuel emissions produced by industrial facilities and power plants, then transporting it to locations where it can be stored to prevent its release into the atmosphere, thereby mitigating global warming (Baugh, 2024). This three-stage process—capture, transport, and storage—aims to reduce the amount of CO₂ released into Earth’s atmosphere. Achieving large-scale CCS deployment requires robust policymaking and effective collaboration between the private and public sectors (IEA, 2021; OECD, 2021). The possible benefits of such collaboration is assessed, to determine the potential of supportive legislation as well as other strategic mechanisms from the public sector for incentivizing private sector engagement in CCS initiatives. Some successful case studies are also provided to illustrate the impact of successful policies on fostering profitable partnerships. This paper therefore explores the critical role of robust policymaking and legislation in boosting private sector participation in CCS as a core contributor to a more sustainable future.
Sustainable Mind, Sustainable Practice : An Exploration of Global Sustainability, Circularity, and Policy Development View Digital Media
Paper Presentation in a Themed Session Tamira Samuel
Rapid urbanization, consumption, and linear methods of production have led to economic growth all over the world. While sustainability practices have been emergent for the last 40 years, through a variety of evolving concepts including green economy, shared values, and life cycle thinking; there have been continuous shifts in the approach, strategy, and development of creating more sustainable cities through development of circular cities and economies. As a member of the Circular San Antonio Copenhagen Sustainability Delegation, we explored both Copenhagen, Denmark and Malmo, Sweden’s intricacies of circularity built in the environment and groundbreaking sustainable urban design initiatives. As our world continues to rethink sustainability best practices, so must our approach to public policy that defines the ability to create and maintain sustainable lifestyles within cities. By 2050, at least 7 out of 10 people will live in a city: exasperating the need for accessible infrastructure, transportation, workforce development, housing, and public education. To prepare for the constant growth and demands of a global economy, cities must think differently about how they are designing infrastructure, housing, and waste management for citizens with limited supply, growing waste, and a changing economy that will have to solve problems that do not presently exist. There are major implications, particularly for marginalized communities that in the current state of the economy - are combatting houselessness, being underemployed, and being under-skilled. Policy must serve as the container for sustainable best practices to establish circularity to improve the quality of life for all citizens.
Featured The Centered Quadruple Model of Sustainability: Reimagining University Roles in Sustainability Governance
Paper Presentation in a Themed Session Hamidreza Harati
This paper explores the evolving role of universities in addressing sustainability challenges through a novel governance framework—the Centered Quadruple Model. While extensive government regulations and private sector initiatives aim to promote sustainability, their effectiveness is often hindered by fragmented interactions and inconsistent responses. In response, this paper proposes a model where universities are positioned centrally, acting as integrators and coordinators among the public sector, private sector, and community. The model highlights the unique capacity of universities to leverage scientific expertise, regulatory guidance, and educational influence to enhance sustainability outcomes. By examining the limitations of traditional governance frameworks, such as the Triple Helix Model and the "third mission" of universities, this study advocates for a redefined approach that fosters comprehensive collaboration. The proposed Centered Quadruple Model emphasizes the importance of universities in bridging gaps between sectors, facilitating multi-stakeholder engagements, and setting standards aligned with sustainability goals. Through a review of current literature and theoretical advancements, this paper argues that universities can significantly enhance the effectiveness of sustainability initiatives by integrating diverse stakeholder perspectives and promoting systemic change. The study concludes with recommendations for future research and practical applications of the model in advancing global sustainability efforts.
