Just Sustainabilities: A Conversation with Julian Agyeman

How can we advance environmental sustainability so that equity, and the people most affected, are at the core — not an afterthought? That’s the key question that our guest, Julian Agyeman, explores on our most recent B-Change podcast episode. He answered the question with multiple examples of what he calls “just sustainabilities”, an approach that he defines as “the need to ensure a better quality of life for all, now, and into the future, in a just and equitable manner, whilst living within the limits of supporting ecosystems.” Julian Agyeman is a Professor of Urban and Environmental Policy and Planning at Tufts University. He is the author or editor of 12 books, many of them focused on just sustainabilities (see Julian Agyeman’s website at https://julianagyeman.com/)

The examples that Julian discusses in this episode include: Embracing the idea of co-production, the concept that community members can work side-by-side with institutions to create better results when you use the strengths and knowledge of both. Moving towards “community resilience.” Rather than focusing only on personal resilience, the ability to “bounce back” after adversity, Julian talks about how whole communities can be more resilient and the role that leaders can play in encouraging thinking that’s more systemic. Putting front and center the voices of people most impacted by injustice, whose stories have long been ignored. Resources: Julian Agyeman website. Here is where you’ll find a comprehensive collection that includes Julian’s blog, books, publications, and videos of several presentations among other resources. https://julianagyeman.com/ Julian Agyeman faculty profile on the Tufts University Urban and Environmental Policy and Planning website: https://as.tufts.edu/uep/people/faculty/julian-agyeman Social media: Follow and engage with Julian Agyeman on Twitter: @julianagyeman