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 View Digital Media
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.
Reconsidering Benefit-Sharing Approach for Addressing Hydro-Political Stalemate in the Nile Basin View Digital Media
Paper Presentation in a Themed Session Asabu Alamineh
The Nile River has been both an engine of development and a cause of controversy among its riparian states for millennia. This paradox took on an international dimension with the inception of the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD). Using a qualitative research method, this paper investigates the GERD controversy and the role of a benefit-sharing approach in the Nile basin. The dam negotiations have been hampered by unjust colonial treaties, the hardline interests of Egypt and Ethiopia, politicisation, uncertainty about the consequences of the dam’s use and lopsided third-party intervention. The paper argues that the adoption of a benefit-sharing approach in the basin can sustain the Nile ecosystem, promote regional peace, increase water flow and decrease unnecessary expenses through modest intraregional cooperation. The resolution of the Nile basin conflict thus relies on identifying the potential of the basin and on integrated cooperative frameworks adopted by the technocrats of its riparian states and international experts.
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.
