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Revolutionising sustainability using a new triplet: A system dynamic model

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  • Abbas, Shahbaz
  • Rao, Abdur Rehman Bin Nasir
  • Khattak, Farrukh
  • Ahmad, Yasir

Abstract

The theory of sustainability has been analysed and implemented in various sectors to minimise the consumption of limited resources and to consume the fullest potential of existing resources. The triple-bottom concept of sustainability covers all possible interactions within an ecosystem. However, the dynamic nature and interconnectivity of sustainability systems, such as the environmental, economic, and social systems, are quite complex to curb sustainability challenges. The modification in one system may create disturbances in other systems. Based on the existing studies on sustainability, this study explored how these systems can be optimised by analysing the relationship between each side of sustainability triangle by 3As, i.e., Adaptability, Affordability and Availability, to determine their impacting macro and micro flows. The reinforcement can be achieved between social-environment by adaptability, social-economics by affordability and economics-environment by availability. These 3As synergise sustainability systems if inflows and outflows in sustainability systems are optimised. The system dynamic approach was adopted to model and examine all possible 3As’ inflows and outflows comprehensively in urban ecosystems. Micro flows are analysed for the associated macro flows for each factor of triplet. The results suggest that although sustainability systems are complex but not wicked in nature, it is required to focus on macro and micro flows of adaptability, affordability and availability in each system. This study may serve as a source of information for improving and maintaining sustainability in industries, businesses and the policy makers to optimise their existing resources on this comprehensive triplet model.

Suggested Citation

  • Abbas, Shahbaz & Rao, Abdur Rehman Bin Nasir & Khattak, Farrukh & Ahmad, Yasir, 2024. "Revolutionising sustainability using a new triplet: A system dynamic model," Ecological Modelling, Elsevier, vol. 492(C).
    • Handle: RePEc:eee:ecomod:v:492:y:2024:i:c:s030438002400108x
    DOI: 10.1016/j.ecolmodel.2024.110720
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