New conceptual framework for sustainability

In 2015 the sustainable development goals (SDGs) and the Paris climate change agreement (COP 21) again drew international attention to the critical global challenges of sustainable development and climate change. For addressing these challenges, an accurate understanding of the complexity and interdependent nature of sustainability is imperative. Within the context of the present development path, this conceptual paper brings clarity to the key issues and actions needed, relevant to the five components of sustainable development. Connected to the key issues and actions required, from a broader and deeper paradigmatic perspective, the framework emphasises the need to shift towards a sustaincentric paradigm, away from the dominant social paradigm.