This book proposes a paradigm shift in how human and nonhuman well-being are perceived and approached. In response to years of accelerated decline in the health of ecosystems and their inhabitants, this edited collection presents planetary well-being as a new cross-disciplinary concept to foster global transformation towards a more equal and inclusive framing of well-being.
Throughout this edited volume, researchers across the humanities, social sciences, and natural sciences apply and reflect on the concept of planetary well-being, showcasing its value as an interdisciplinary, cross-sectoral changemaker. The book explores the significance of planetary well-being as a theoretical and empirical concept in sustainability science and applies it to discipline-specific cases, including business, education, psychology, culture, and development. Interdisciplinary perspectives on topical global questions and processes underpin each chapter, from soil processes and ecosystem health to global inequalities and cultural transformation, in the framework of planetary well-being.
The book will appeal to academics, researchers, and students in a broad range of disciplines including sustainability science, sustainable development, natural resources, and environmental humanities. Calling readers to assess, challenge, and rethink the dominant perceptions of well-being and societal activities, this rich resource that explores the interconnection between human and nonhuman well-being serves as a tool to foster transformative action towards a more sustainable society.
About the Author: Merja Elo is a post-doctoral researcher of community ecology at University of Jyväskylä, Finland, covering topics from macroecology to conservation biology and restoration ecology.
Jonne Hytönen is a research coordinator at University of Jyväskylä and a post-doctoral researcher at Aalto University Department of Built Environment. He researches sustainability transition in spatial planning.
Sanna Karkulehto is a professor of literature at University of Jyväskylä, Finland, whose most recent publications include the ESCL Collaborative Research Award Finalist Reconfiguring Human, Nonhuman and Posthuman in Literature and Culture (2020, Routledge, ed. with A-K. Koistinen and E. Varis).
Teea Kortetmäki is a senior researcher in social sciences and philosophy at University of Jyväskylä, Finland. She conducts research on environmental ethics, climate policy, and sustainability transitions.
Janne S. Kotiaho is a professor of ecology and director of the School of Resource Wisdom at University of Jyväskylä, Finland. He is the chair of the Finnish Nature Panel and a scientific advisor to the government of Finland in issues related to biodiversity and ecosystem restoration.
Mikael Puurtinen is a research coordinator at the School of Resource Wisdom at University of Jyväskylä, Finland. He conducts evolutionary ecology research and produces and coordinates materials for interdisciplinary sustainability education.
Miikka Salo is a senior lecturer at University of Jyväskylä, Finland. He conducts research on energy politics and environmental governance and citizenship.
