When global crises in several areas and civil society mobilization for a just transition are multiplying, sustainability of development trajectories and the need for greater consistency of SDGs have risen to the forefront of many debates. Anchored in a context where economic issues often take precedence over longer-term environmental problems, these debates have contributed to bring the notion of strong sustainability – the AFD 15th International Research Conference flagship topic – back to the spotlight.
The conference’s multidisciplinary program is designed around three principles of strong sustainability: non-substitutability between capitals, multidimensionality, and the social construct. The event comprises two academic days and one open discussion day: 7 plenary sessions and 13 parallel sessions will combine theoretical insights, testimonies, and recommendations for the public and private sectors to address better political, environmental, economic, and social challenges in the field of development.
Global Footprint Network founder and president Mathis Wackernagel will deliver closing remarks on the second day of the conference, Thursday, December 8 at 5:30 pm CET.