Challenges to Sustainable Development - An Investigation of Sustainable Practices in Small-Scale Business and Local Government in England

Abstract

Humanity s ever increasing consumptive practices can no longer be sustained in the manner it has become accustomed to without resulting in severe repercussions. Decades of multidisciplinary research has produced extensive evidence of the destructive consequences of the path we are walking, and where it will lead. Nonetheless, we have witnessed limited and inept reformations to a system that requires a robust and effective response in order to alter course. While alterations are primarily directed and steered from top levels, practically, these alterations are executed at ground level.

This thesis will endeavour to explore the challenges and translation of sustainable development from within the contexts of small-scale business and local government in England. The exploration and analysis should reveal the challenges obstructing and impeding sustainable development at the ground level. From which point, recommendations for increasing efficacy in approaches to sustainability will be made possible.