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Publication
Social Sustainability in Chemical Engineering: Concepts, Methodologies, Challenges, and Integration Strategies
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Authors
Advisor(s)
Abstract(s)
Chemical engineering faces an increasing imperative to integrate sustainability principles beyond traditional economic and environmental considerations. The social dimension—encompassing impacts on human well-being, equity, community health, labor practices, and ethical governance—represents a critical yet often underdeveloped pillar within the field. To tackle this research gap, this study employs a systematic literature review. Its unique contribution is the synthesis of a fragmented, multidisciplinary body of literature into a coherent conceptual framework specifically for chemical engineering. Social sustainability is conceptualized, examining its key elements and its place within the broader triple bottom line framework, while critically analyzing the inherent complexities and frequent hierarchy observed among the triple bottom line pillars, particularly, the dominance of economic drivers. The review narrows its focus to three critical themes: the persistent challenges in conceptualizing social sustainability for engineering contexts; a critical evaluation of assessment methodologies, particularly qualitative and stakeholderbased approaches; and actionable strategies for integrating these concepts into chemical engineering practice and education. Strategies for advancing social sustainability are explored, including robust stakeholder engagement, integration into corporate policy and project management, supply chain responsibility, green engineering principles, industrial symbiosis, responsible innovation, and educational reform. The evolving role and ethical responsibilities of chemical engineers as agents of social change are emphasized.
Description
Keywords
Engineering education Responsible innovation Social sustainability Stakeholder engagement Sustainable development Triple bottom line
Pedagogical Context
Citation
Santos, José M.R.C.A. (2025). Social Sustainability in Chemical Engineering: Concepts, Methodologies, Challenges, and Integration Strategies. Sustainable Development. ISSN 0968-0802. p. 1-17
Publisher
Wiley