The book draws upon the expertise and international research collaborations forged by the Worldwide Universities Network Global Africa Group to critically engage with the intersection, in theory and practice, of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and Africa’s development agendas and needs. Further, it argues that – and demonstrates how – the SDGs should be understood as an aspirational blueprint for development with multiple meanings that are situated in dynamic and contested terrains. As the SDGs have substantial implications for development policy and resourcing at both the macro and micro levels, their relevance is not only context-specific but should also be assessed in terms of the aspirations and needs of ordinary citizens across the continent. Drawing on analyses and evidence from both the natural and social sciences, the book demonstrates that progress towards the SDGs must meet demands for improving human well-being under diverse and challenging socio-economic, political and environmental conditions. Examples include those from the mining industry, public health, employment and the media. In closing, it highlights how international collaboration in the form of research networks can enhance the production of critical knowledge on and engagement with the SDGs in Africa.

Africa is one of the most vulnerable regions, and one where the implementation of the SDGs is particularly urgent. Underinvestments in natural conservation are increasing the vulnerability of people across many African countries, whose well-being is endangered by deteriorating socio-economic and environmental conditions. This volume provides a contribution towards showcasing how natural resources may be more efficiently used and investments may be mobilised to augment the limited public sector funds available to achieve the SDGs. This book is part of the "100 papers to accelerate the implementation of the UN Sustainable Development Goals initiative".

In the vibrant discourse of urbanization and climate change, Sustainable Urban Agriculture: New Frontiers investigates emerging needs, rising challenges, and opportunities to support urban agriculture. Navigating the dynamic interplay of urbanization and environmental challenges, the book introduces two pivotal agendas for urban sustainability—the "green" agenda, focusing on environmental health, and the "brown" agenda, emphasizing human well-being and social justice. The book embraces a global perspective by confronting geographical biases and advocating for context-specific understanding and early interventions in small and medium cities. This transformative journey guides readers through uncharted territories, fostering profound awareness of urban agriculture's role in shaping a sustainable and resilient future in agriculture. Features Presents information on socio-ecological resilience, shaping a sustainable urban future Unveils practical implications, traversing frontiers where urban cultivation extends beyond crops, cultivating a thriving urban ecosystem Discusses diverse urban agriculture practices, from traditional methods to cutting-edge technologies Providing readers with an understanding of the multifaceted layers inherent in urban agriculture, this volume in the NextGen Agriculture: Novel Concepts and Innovative Strategies series is essential for academics, students, practitioners, and experts in urban agriculture and planning, horticulture, landscape architecture, and plant sciences.

The aim of this report is to present an overview of the 17 Goals using data currently available to highlight the most significant gaps and challenges.

This volume describes the thinking on sustainable development and a variety of initiatives across Europe, illustrating regional efforts to foster sustainable communities and ecological and social innovation. It contains various contributions which showcase examples of thinking, economic and social structures and in consumption and production patterns needed, to implement the SDGs. This book is part of the "100 papers to accelerate the implementation of the UN Sustainable Development Goals initiative".

The world is in a race against time to achieve the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (UN SDGs) by 2030. Despite global efforts to address these ambitious goals, progress remains uneven, and significant gaps persist. Women are often underrepresented and underutilized in leadership positions, yet they possess untapped potential to be formidable forces of change. The Role of Female Leaders in Achieving the Sustainable Development Goals is an exploration into the role of female leaders in overcoming the challenges that hinder the realization of the UN SDGs. It makes clear that the reality of achieving these goals requires a seismic shift in leadership dynamics, with women at the forefront of this transformative journey. The Role of Female Leaders in Achieving the Sustainable Development Goals introduces readers to a diverse array of women leaders who have been instrumental in driving progress towards the UN SDGs. Their stories serve as sources of inspiration for academics, corporate executives, non-governmental organization (NGO) leaders, and government officials, showcasing the tangible impact women can have when given the opportunity to lead. The book is a call to action, urging women to step into leadership roles across academia, corporations, civil society, and government, thereby expediting the achievement of the United Nations development goals.