Open Access Article

Exploring Advancing Social Equity through Sustainable Development: Challenges and Opportunities

Israr Ahmad (1)
1. School of Management, Universiti Sains Malaysia, 11800 Minden, Penang, Malaysia
https://doi.org/10.36923/SQ.v1i1.237

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Issue
Vol. 1 No. 1 (2024)
Submitted
January 21, 2024
Accepted
December 17, 2025
Published
July 15, 2024
Keywords:
    Social equity, Sustainable development, Environmental justice, Community Resilience, Policy integration, Quantitative analysis, United Kingdom
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Abstract

This study investigates the integration of social equity considerations into sustainable development initiatives within the United Kingdom using a quantitative research methodology. Data were collected through a structured survey administered to 500 policymakers, practitioners, and community members involved in sustainability projects. The analysis reveals a significant positive relationship between social equity integration and the perceived effectiveness of these initiatives. Key findings indicate that initiatives incorporating social equity considerations are more effective in addressing social inequalities, although challenges such as funding constraints, inadequate policy support, and stakeholder resistance persist. Additionally, successful initiatives often involve inclusive decision-making processes that engage marginalized communities. The study underscores the need for comprehensive evaluations of the long-term impacts of equity-focused sustainability initiatives, the development of inclusive processes that integrate traditional and local knowledge with modern practices, and context-specific solutions tailored to different socio-economic and environmental conditions. These insights offer valuable guidance for policymakers and practitioners aiming to promote both environmental sustainability and social equity in their efforts.

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Authors

Israr Ahmad
https://orcid.org/0000-0001-5521-0732
chaudhryisrar@gmail.com (Primary Contact)
Author Biography

Israr Ahmad

Dr. Israr Ahmad is a dedicated academic and management professional, currently engaged as a Post-Doctoral Fellow at Universiti Sains Malaysia's School of Management. With a doctorate from Universiti Utara Malaysia, he has 6 years of combined experience in industry and academia. Dr. Ahmad has made significant contributions to the field with 20 research publications in renowned national and international journals, and actively participates in editorial capacities. His research interests innovation management, strategic management, and organizational development. Committed to using his expertise in education, research, and analytics, Dr. Ahmad aspires to elevate underprivileged communities through advanced management education, advocating for higher enrollment and curriculum modernization in higher education. His post-doctoral work continues to build on his vision of merging research with practical applications to benefit society sustainably.

Ahmad, I. (2024). Exploring Advancing Social Equity through Sustainable Development: Challenges and Opportunities. Sustainability Quest, 1(1), 1-07. https://doi.org/10.36923/SQ.v1i1.237
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How to Cite

Ahmad, I. (2024). Exploring Advancing Social Equity through Sustainable Development: Challenges and Opportunities. Sustainability Quest, 1(1), 1-07. https://doi.org/10.36923/SQ.v1i1.237

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