Work

Social Sustainability in Chemical Engineering: Concepts, Methodologies, Challenges, and Integration Strategies

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: ABSTRACT 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 stakeholder‐based 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.

Source: Sustainable Development

DOI: 10.1002/sd.70456

Author: José M. R. C. A. Santos

Institution: Universidade Politécnica de Bragança

Language: English

Topic: Engineering Education and Global Impact

Subfield: Development

Field: Social Sciences

Domain: Social Sciences

Open Access status: hybrid

Estimated APC paid: $4,250

Funder: Fundação para a Ciência e a Tecnologia