Connecting Sustainable Rural Development Projects and the Principles of Responsible Investment in Agriculture and Food Systems from the WWP Model: Lessons from Case Studies Across Seven Countries
Year: 2026
Type: article
Abstract: International literature shows significant growth in relation to sustainable rural development in response to ongoing needs. The principles for Responsible Investment in Agriculture and Food Systems (CFS-RAI) enable projects to be geared towards meeting the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). In this article, we present an empirically grounded analysis of these RAI principles, based on in-depth case studies in seven countries (Spain, Ecuador, Peru, Santo Domingo, Bolivia, Colombia, and Mexico). This experience focuses on an international project coordinated by the GESPLAN Research Group (https://www.ruraldevelopment.es) at the Polytechnic University of Madrid. The methodological process incorporates the Working with People model, analyzing the understanding of CFS-RAI principles by rural actors in different countries and contexts of university-business relations. The results show the effectiveness of the WWP model, based on the integration of its three dimensions: ethical-social, technical-business, and political-contextual, as an effective proposal for planning sustainable rural development projects in numerous contexts. The empirical evidence presented indicates that combining the WWP model with the principles of CFS-RAI in rural contexts allows progress toward sustainable development, balancing economic aspects with human, social, and environmental well-being.
Source: Sustainability
DOI: 10.3390/su18031402
Institution: Universidad Politécnica de Madrid
Language: English
Domain: Life Sciences
Open Access status: gold
Estimated APC paid: $2,896
OpenAlex ID: W7126168226