Description
Book SynopsisCan there be a common definition of sustainable development?
Views on sustainable development range from those of the mainstream economist to the hardened environmentalist via many shades of green. This book offers a clear overview of the debates and sets out the various theories, providing an accessible introduction for all who now need to understand how sustainable development affects their working practices.
The text is structured around key questions on the concept of sustainable development:
- Does it define a starting point, a process, or the end-goal?
- Can it provide a coherent theory?
- Is it a workable concept in practice?
- Is it balanced' or does balance' form part of the solution?
Mark Mawhinney explores the various strands of thought that claim to define sustainable development - as a concept, a theory or as a set of principles. He also highlights gaps in understanding that often arise and attem
Trade Review
'I can strongly recommend this book to those within the construction community seeking a broader understanding of sustainable development. The beauty of this book is that it provides as appropriately placed, cogently argued, stepping stone within comfortable reach of the majority construction community. I hope it is widely read and sets the groundwork for the thousands of steps to follow.'
David Shipworth
The University of Reading
Table of ContentsAn overview; The 'traditional economist's' view of the debate; The 'environmental' arguments; Some of the shades in-between; Practical interpretations of the debate; Missing elements in the debate; Breaking down entrenched positions; Redefining the debate; References; Index
