Inter- and transdisciplinary approaches to population-environment research for sustainability aims: a review and appraisal

DOWNLOAD

June 8, 2012 - Diana Hummel; Susana Adamo; Alex de Sherbinin; Laura Murphy; Rimjhim Aggarwal; Leo Zulu; Jianguo Liu<liuji@msu.edu>; Kyle Knight

Journal or Book Title: Population and Environment

Keywords: Population–environment theory; methodology; political ecology; sustainable development; STIRPAT;

Volume/Issue: 34/4

Page Number(s): 481-509

Year Published: 2013

The causes and consequences of demographic changes for the environment, and the possible ways of influencing population dynamics to achieve ‘sustainability’, have been the subject of many debates in science and policy in recent decades. However, the body of knowledge concerning relationships between population dynamics and sustainability is quite fragmented, dispersed over many disciplines, and encompasses diverse theories, paradigms and methodologies. This paper reviews four selected frameworks: linear, multiplicative, mediated, and system-theoretical approaches and perspectives. We represent how population–environment relationships are conceptualized, provide examples of research questions and accepted approaches, and critically assess their utility for different sorts of research for sustainable development. We note the growing recognition of the value of embracing complexity in population–environment research, and how this is consistent with normative aims of development.

DOI: 10.1007/s11111-012-0176-2

Type of Publication: Journal Article

Publisher: Springer

DOWNLOAD FILE

Authors

You Might Also Be Interested In

Accessibility Questions:

For questions about accessibility and/or if you need additional accommodations for a specific document, please send an email to ANR Communications & Marketing at anrcommunications@anr.msu.edu.

Tag List
  • center for systems integration and sustainability,
  • methodology,
  • political ecology,
  • population-environment theory,
  • stirpat,
  • sustainable development
Michigan State University
  • Spartans Will.
  • © Michigan State University

MSU is an affirmative-action, equal-opportunity employer, committed to achieving excellence through a diverse workforce and inclusive culture that encourages all people to reach their full potential.

Michigan State University Extension programs and materials are open to all without regard to race, color, national origin, gender, gender identity, religion, age, height, weight, disability, political beliefs, sexual orientation, marital status, family status or veteran status. Issued in furtherance of MSU Extension work, acts of May 8 and June 30, 1914, in cooperation with the U.S. Department of Agriculture. Quentin Tyler, Director, MSU Extension, East Lansing, MI 48824. This information is for educational purposes only. Reference to commercial products or trade names does not imply endorsement by MSU Extension or bias against those not mentioned.

The 4-H Name and Emblem have special protections from Congress, protected by code 18 USC 707.

We comply with the Federal Trade Commission 1998 Children’s Online Privacy Protection Act (COPPA).