Community Empowerment, Sustainable Cities, and Transformative Economies

The 1st International Conference on Business, Economics, Management, and Sustainability (BEMAS) conference papers argue that traditional methods of external risks, climate change adaptation plans, and sustainable economic growth in cities are inadequate. This book looks at vulnerable communities and areas that tend to experience higher susceptibility to external risks and requires different adaptive responses to climate risk. It also emphasizes the importance of transformative growth and fundamental reorientation of economic resources to achieve the 2030 Agenda. Social disorganisation and vulnerability are other undesired outcomes of external economic shocks.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 706 pages
Publication date: 13 January 2023
Publisher: Springer Verlag, Singapore

The 1st International Conference on Business, Economics, Management, and Sustainability (BEMAS) was organized by the Centre for International Trade and Business in Asia (CITBA) at James Cook University, and the conference papers presented therein form the content of this edited volume. The book makes a compelling argument that the traditional approaches to managing external risks, developing climate change adaptation plans, and fostering sustainable economic growth in cities have become insufficient. These methods have overlooked the ongoing structural transformations associated with economic development, as well as the shifting composition of industries and the emergence of new comparative advantages and skills.

In particular, this book focuses on the vulnerable communities and exposed areas, particularly in urban areas, that tend to face higher susceptibility to external risks such as climate change, natural disasters, and public health emergencies. These communities have been largely ignored in incremental adaptation plans, which fail to recognize the unique challenges they face.

Vulnerable communities and areas require different adaptive responses to climate risk, but they also possess untapped adaptive capacity that can drive different patterns of sustainable development toward achieving the goals of the 2030 Agenda. It is essential to view transformative growth and a fundamental reorientation of economic resources as integral components of the solution.

Furthermore, the unpredictable and widespread external economic shocks have led to social disorganization and vulnerability. This is due to the sudden and intense competition among members of society for scarce resources, many of which may be depleted during unprecedented events like natural disasters or pandemics. This further exacerbates the chaotic and disorganized conditions in society.

To address these challenges, it is crucial to adopt a comprehensive and integrated approach that considers the interdependencies between different sectors and disciplines. This includes developing innovative policies, technologies, and practices that promote resilience, sustainability, and social equity. It also requires collaboration among governments, businesses, civil society organizations, and individuals to share resources, knowledge, and expertise and work towards a common goal.

In conclusion, this edited volume provides valuable insights into the current state of affairs and offers potential solutions for managing external risks, promoting sustainable economic growth, and fostering social well-being. It underscores the need for a transformative and collaborative approach that recognizes the unique challenges faced by vulnerable communities and areas and leverages their adaptive capacity to drive sustainable development. By adopting such an approach, we can build a more resilient and sustainable future for all.

Weight: 1086g
Dimension: 235 x 155 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9789811652622
Edition number: 1st ed. 2022