Earth Science Frontiers ›› 2025, Vol. 32 ›› Issue (3): 105-117.DOI: 10.13745/j.esf.sf.2025.3.4

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Socio-ecological systems science and sustainable development in the Anthropocene

LI Lei(), XU Peng, ZENG Zhao, ZHAO Dandan, MA Shaojun, Liu Cong-Qiang*()   

  1. Center for Sustainable Development Science, School of Earth System Science, Tianjin University, Tianjin, 300072, China
  • Received:2025-02-06 Revised:2025-02-23 Online:2025-03-25 Published:2025-04-20

Abstract:

Social-ecological systems science provides essential theoretical insights and practical approaches for addressing the global challenges of sustainable development in the Anthropocene. This study begins by analyzing the key obstacles to achieving global sustainable development goals, examining them through four critical dimensions: social, economic, environmental, and ecological. It then explores the theoretical foundations and historical evolution of social-ecological systems science, emphasizing the potential of this interdisciplinary approach in the context of global environmental change. Furthermore, the study investigates the pivotal role of social-ecological systems science in fostering cross-sector collaboration, optimizing resource allocation, and driving policy innovation, underscoring its importance in advancing the global sustainable development agenda. Finally, the study concludes by discussing future research directions, with a particular focus on the transformative potential of interdisciplinary collaboration, systems modeling, and technological innovation in achieving sustainable development goals.

Key words: Anthropocene, systems science, sustainable development, ecosystem

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