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187 Sustainability Topics For Research Papers In 2023

If you are a student of environmental science or even technology, sustainability is a very important topic for your research papers. These topics help you study the impact of mankind on the environment and different options that are available to prevent further deterioration of the planet. There is a lot of scope for research on this subject, making it one of the most common topics for dissertation or thesis writing. Here is a list of some of the best environmental sustainability research topics that will help you get started on your research paper and project.

The topics below are practical and easy because you can find a lot of information about them. Whether you are writing an informative or argumentative paper, these topics are the perfect starting point for you.

Environmental Sustainability Research Topics

These sustainability research topics are suitable for in-depth data and analysis. They are ideal for lengthy writing assignments.

Draw a comparison between different non-profit groups that are dedicated to improving sustainability.
Can custom sustainable designs for classrooms improve learning?
Is adding better natural lighting a sustainable way of saving on energy costs in large organizations?
What are the different technological innovations that are focused on reducing environmental pollution?
Does veganism help protect the environment?
Are hand dryers instead of paper towels a good idea for public restrooms?
How is pollution related to a country’s GDP?
Why do developing nations find it difficult to start recycling programs?
What are some political challenges that the environment faces globally?
Is American politics affecting the environment?
What are the benefits of choosing a vegan diet?
Do developed countries have the responsibility of helping third-world nations become more sustainable?
Are your current local environmental policies effective enough?
Should high schools and colleges ban the use of plastic?
How does food consumption affect the environment?
Why is Sweden so different from other countries when it comes to protecting the environment?
What are some technological advancements that help us reduce waste?
Why have we failed to reduce food wastage across the globe?
Is better recycling technology the solution to reducing waste in landfills?
How are plastic straws a threat to the environment of the Earth?
Can increased taxes items meant for single-use reduce waste from piling up in landfills?
Why do some states succeed in banning plastic bags while others fail?
How is overpopulation related to pollution?
In the next fifty years, how will the population impact the environment?
Do we have enough natural resources to support the exploding population across the globe?
What role does the government play in improving food resources?

Easy Sustainability Topics For Research

These sustainability topics for research are commonly used by students because they are practical in terms of research and the availability of data.

Is banning plastic a suitable solution to reduce environmental pollution?
What are the options available to make cutlery sustainable?
Should metros ban the use of plastic straws completely?
Why is our ecosystem so dependent on sea life?
Does any carbon footprint come from farm animals and how?
Why is it the need of the hour to prevent waste from being dumped into oceans?
How does getting fair-trade certificates to benefit university campuses?
Why should we increase the consumption of local produce?
How does supporting local businesses improve sustainability?
Should food donation programs be imposed in cities?
How has the emergence of farmers’ markets helped various communities?
Is buffet-style dining beneficial or harmful for efforts toward sustainability?
How can taxes be used to improve sustainability efforts?
How can leftovers from hotels and restaurants be disposed of sustainably?
What are the various benefits of food programs for the community?
Explain the process of growing vegan produce and its effect on the environment
How have sustainability efforts been affected globally as a result of the pandemic?
Is zero-waste living ideal?
What does sustainability mean in the 21st century?
How is supporting local food markets sustainable?
How does the greenhouse effect change as a result of less meat consumption?
Does eating red meat improve the quality of the air?
What are some benefits of switching to a plant-based diet?
Should school cafeterias increase the options for vegan food?
How do slaughterhouses impact the environment negatively?
What if all restaurants switched to buffet-style meals?

Best Sustainability Topics For Research Papers

Looking for sustainability topics for research that can ensure better grades. Here is a list of some of the best topics on sustainability that you can choose from.

Give a detailed plan for a sustainable restaurant.
Why do large cities struggle with reducing air pollution?
Should cities make it mandatory to reduce food waste in community gardens?
What are some of the primary benefits of improving public transportation systems?
Should rainwater harvesting become compulsory for large buildings?
Has technology benefited or harmed the environment?
Will reducing our dependence on technology help sustain the environment?
Are smaller classrooms beneficial or harmful to the environment?
How has the pandemic affected the environment positively?
What is the negative impact of the pandemic on the environment?
Can reducing the number of school days improve sustainability efforts?
How do school campuses contribute to environmental deterioration? How can it be reduced?
What are the best ways to teach children about non-renewable and renewable resources?
What are some immediate changes that you can make in your life to become more sustainable?
Create a detailed sustainability plan for your family
Can maintaining a constant temperature at home reduce energy costs? Support your argument with data.
Chart out a detailed zero-waste living plan that can be implemented easily.
What is the relationship between community health and the environment?
Case studies of the impact of pollution on the health of people.
How do developing nations improve their access to water resources?
Can government policies truly help the environment?
Will creating better public spaces like riverbeds and parks improve sustainability?
What are some measures that can be used to improve access to clean water in developing nations?
What are some measures taken by Denmark to reduce food waste?
Discuss Sweden’s efforts to use waste for heating and energy.
How can we reduce pollution and improve the quality of care at the same time?

Environmental Research Topics for College Students

These sustainability topics for research papers are perfect for college students as they are most relevant and extremely interesting as well.

What are the best ways to deal with medical waste?
How has awareness about recycling improved sustainability efforts?
Is global warming false as some world leaders claim?
What are some ecological challenges that the US will face in the coming decades?
Will green universities improve students’ mental health?
How can growing your food help in improving sustainability?
What are the best measures that communities can take to prevent waste
What are the best ways to use landscaping sustainably?
Is gardening around the house a good way of improving the quality of air amidst growing pollution rates?
Should fireworks be banned?
How can we raise cattle sustainably?
How is the fashion industry impacting the environment?
Discuss the importance of sustainable fashion in the world we live in.
How can community gardens help cities become more sustainable?
How can you measure the success of a smart city by the well-being of its inhabitants?
What are smart cities? Can you provide examples?
How can digitization be used to pursue a sustainability agenda?
What are the various ecological dimensions of sustainability?
Should governments provide more grants for research on sustainability?
Discuss some sustainable measures that we can learn from our ancestors.
What is the impact of America’s withdrawal from the Paris Climate Agreement?
What are the Paris Climate Agreement and its important terms?
How can changing policies from a macro level to a micro level improve sustainability efforts?
What are the best measures taken by the UN to improve sustainability?
Greta Thunberg: The poster child of climate change or a publicity stunt?
The most impactful environmentalists over the last decade.

Sustainability Topics for All Levels

These sustainability research paper topics are perfect for you whether you are writing a high school paper or a college paper. They are versatile and easy to compile.

How will our carbon footprint impact the generations to come?
What are the different types of sustainability?
What does sustainability education mean?
How can your school or college improve its regulations to make the campus sustainable?
Are there any sustainability programs that have been implemented in your school or college?
Do solar panels on buildings help reduce energy costs?
What are the benefits of including sustainability education in the school curriculum?
How does non-plastic waste in the oceans impact the environment?
How to prevent the greenhouse effect from agriculture?
Should governments support and invest in more solar technologies?
How can a home become energy efficient with solar energy?
How does an improved ventilation system improve sustainability?
What are the measures taken by modern schools and colleges in improving sustainability?
How can modern classrooms make use of natural light for better sustainability?
How can we save on energy by setting systems off when they are still idle.
What are the various benefits of changing classroom timings to optimize the use of natural lighting?
Is it possible to apply a game theory to manage challenges with sustainability?
What is the difference between biocapacity and carbon footprint in various regions?
What are some challenges faced by companies when it comes to conserving energy?
Can you name some environmental groups that have been most effective in cleaning up plastic from the oceans and how they have achieved their goals?
What are some positive effects of reducing computer screen brightness?
Name some countries with the poorest environmental laws?
A case study of the most sustainable nations in the world.
The effect of plastic on the environment in detail.
What are some effective measures of saving water?
A study of oil spills and their effect on marine life over the last decade.

Environmental Project Topics

Have an environmental sustainability topic due? This sustainability topics list is all you need to present projects that grab the attention of your audience.

What are some barriers and drivers of sustainability research?
How does on-campus sustainable research help increase practical solutions for environmental sustainability?
Provide a business case to install new lighting systems
What are some lighting systems available today that are most sustainable?
Needs luxury led to an unsustainable environment?
What are the benefits of using electric cars?
The most impactful evidence to prove that global warming is real.
Do political agendas suppress sustainability efforts? How?
What are some of the major threats of climate change?
The importance of teaching children about sustainability
What are some of the most common examples of wasteful living that you see around you?
The relationship between undernutrition, obesity, and climate change.
Why has ice loss across the Himalayas become rapid over the last 40 years?
How quickly are we depleting natural resources?
How does the medical industry contribute to global warming?
What is the Lancet Countdown on climate change and health?
Does climate change impact the health of newborn children?
How has industrialization helped and harmed the environment?
The use of heating and cooling systems and their impact on the environment.
The harmful impact of the film industry on the environment
Celebrities who have successfully endorsed anti-climate change campaigns
KFC and the Amazon Rainforests: What was the chaos about?
How has the fast-food industry impacted the environment?
The contribution of the aviation industry toward global warming
What is a carbon tax and how can it help improve efforts towards sustainability?
Write about the development of waste streams over the last few decades.
Are newspapers viable in times of sustainability?
The importance of enhancing biodiversity to reduce environmental deterioration.
Can improving safety regulations for cyclists contribute to sustainability?
What are some of the most sustainable multi-national companies? Discuss their strategies.

Sustainable Development Topics

Development is a very important topic for research paper writing for students of environmental studies. Here are some sustainability topics for research related to development to help you get started.

How has economic globalization impacted the environment?
What is the relationship between autocracy, democracy, wars, and natural resources?
How does a finite environmental capacity impact political and economic development?
Changing human behavior and the use of natural resources.
Adaptation and mitigation policies to solve environmental issues.
The difference between the approach of a political institution and market-based requirements towards sustainability.
How has the automobile industry taken steps towards sustainability?
What are some effects of Green Technology on the economy?
What is the advantage of using Green Technology in organizations?
A detailed study of the Global Environmental Sustainability Framework to technology.
How can digitization be used to improve awareness about sustainability?
Is it practical to implement Green technology in developing countries? What are the best measures that can be taken?
How can construction become sustainable?
How can Green Thinking help improve sustainability?
What is the perception of green energy and sustainability in multinational organizations?
What are some sustainability policies that have helped developing nations?
The impact of digitization on sustainability
What are the current trends in Green Technology?
Should builders receive incentives for constructing sustainable structures?
Incentives for sustainability in industrial settings.
The most effective option for disposing of electronic waste.
How advancement in medical technology has impacted the environment
The relationship between motorsports and the environment.
Do large public events like concerts and sports events impact sustainability?
The impact of styrofoam cups on the environment.
Advancements in technology have contributed to sustainability.
Scientists who have contributed effectively towards sustainability.

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80 sustainability research topics for students to explore green campus issues

You’re planning your thesis, paper or capstone? You want to do a student research project with impact. We have outlined a range of sustainability research topics for you. The list specifically focuses on how to green your campus . Take action to make your university more sustainable!

Our list of sustainability research topics helps students investigate green campus issues.

Sustainability research topics: Education

Some sustainability research topics on education for sustainable development :

What are the strengths and weaknesses of different definitions of sustainability education? Which definition could your university adopt?
To what extent is sustainability education already implemented in the curriculum of your university?
What are the strengths and limitations of advancing sustainability education within your curriculum?
Where does your university stand with regards to sustainability education compared to other institutions of higher education?
What is the demand among students for more, different or better sustainability education?
How can existing sustainability projects on campus be used for educational purposes, e.g. visit solar cells on rooftops as part of engineering classes?

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What definition of sustainability research should your university embrace?
To what extent is sustainability research already practised at your university?
What are the strengths and weaknesses of the institution’s sustainability research portfolio compared to other institutions of higher education?
What are the drivers of and barriers to sustainability research at your university?
How could sustainability research help students to study sustainability issues on campus and inform practical change projects?
What are the opportunities and costs associated with promoting sustainability research? What could a plan of action look like to strategically advance it?

Some sustainability research topics on community engagement and awareness:

What are the perceptions of and attitudes towards sustainability by students and staff?
What are ways to promote sustainable lifestyles among students?
To what extent are students and staff aware of the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) ?
How aware are students and staff about the institution’s sustainability ambitions?
What are the benefits and disadvantages of approaches to communicate the university’s sustainability efforts better?
What are the challenges to involve students and staff in the university’s sustainability efforts?
Which ways to increase the engagement of the campus community exist, for example by organising sustainability events ?

For inspiration, read our post on 10 projects to engage students on the SDGs .

Explore sustainability topics for research papers on different issues related to greening campus operations:

What are the opportunities and costs of improving the building insulations to save energy?
What lighting systems exist on the market that are more energy efficient?
What would a business case look like to install a new lighting system?
Where are the main consumers of energy on campus?
What innovative energy technologies are developed at the institution itself? To what extent could those be directly installed and tested in buildings?
What lux values are sufficient for work and study places so that places are appropriately lit without wasting too much electricity?
What are the strengths and weaknesses of different sustainable building standards?
Which building standards would be most appropriate to inform the institution’s sustainable building policy?
What are the costs and benefits associated with different types of green roofs?
On which buildings could green roofs be installed?
To what extent are catering and food products certified as organic or fair trade food?
How much and why do students attach importance to organic and fair trade products sold in the cafeteria?
How can students and employees be made more aware of the multiple benefits – e.g. health, environment, economics – of sustainable (organic, fair trade, local) food ?
How much are students willing to pay for more organic or fair trade products?
What types and amounts of waste are produced by whom and where at the institution?
How did waste streams develop over the last years?
What are innovative practices in reducing waste going to landfill or incineration? How could those be applied?
What are the costs and benefits associated with waste recycling ?
What options exist to switch from paper-based to more digital forms of working and studying to reduce paper consumption?
What are the environmental, economic, and social benefits and disadvantages of different options to advance more digital working and studying?

More sustainability research topics on campus operations:

Biodiversity

What species live at different campus locations?
To what extent do students, faculty and staff value this biodiversity?
What are ways to enhance biodiversity on campus?

Greenhouse-gase (GHG)

What are the pros and cons of different GHG accounting standards?
Which standard should the institution use to develop a GHG emissions inventory ?
Where are GHG emissions released at the institution?
How big is the institution’s GHG footprint?

Procurement

What does sustainable procurement mean in the context of a university?
How is procurement currently organised? To what extent are sustainability criteria already applied in tenders?
To what extent could the university implement sustainability criteria that go beyond the legal minimum to advance the environmental, economic and social benefits of tenders?
What are the largest consumers of water?
What is the direct and indirect water-footprint of the institution?
What are opportunities and costs to reduce water usage?

Transportation and mobility

How do students and staff currently travel to the university and as part of their study or work?
What is the environmental impact of these travel behaviours? How could the impact be reduced?
What best practices exist among companies and other institutions of higher education to reduce staff travel or incentivize different travel behaviours?

Behaviour change

What is the potential to reduce resource consumption through behaviour change?
What are the best practices of behaviour change interventions at institutions of higher education?
To what extent could these projects be also applied at your university?

Sustainability research topics on governance, strategy and reporting

Sustainability research topics on governance issues:

What does sustainability mean for institutions of higher education?
How does a comprehensive concept of a sustainable institution of higher education look like?
How could the university’s long-term sustainability vision look like? How could this vision be realized through a roadmap?
What are innovative ways to develop sustainability strategies for a university through a bottom-up approach?
What ethical imperatives would demand that institutions of higher education care for their impact on the planet, people and profit?
What are the responsibilities of institutions of higher education to contribute to global challenges, such as poverty, gender inequality, and climate change?

Monitoring and reporting

What data is important to monitor the institution’s environmental impact? How can this data be collected and analysed?
What are the advantages and disadvantages of different sustainability reporting standards?
Which sustainability reporting standards should the university adhere to?
What are efficient ways to organize sustainability reporting within the organization?
What is the best way to communicate results among students, staff and outside actors?
What are the strengths and weaknesses of different methodologies (e.g. payback or Net Present Value) to calculate the financial costs and benefits of sustainability investments?
Which methodology should the institution apply?
To what extent could sustainability projects be financed through a revolving loan fund?
What are the possibilities to involve outside organizations through energy contracting?
What subsidies are available at the European, national and city level to develop a green campus?
How could the university use these financing options to advance its energy transition?
What are approaches to integrate negative externalities into the accounting schemes of the university?
What would be the opportunities, benefits and risks associated with establishing an energy company that’s owned by the university?
What are the best practices to finance energy efficiency and renewable energy projects at public institutions around the world?
How can incentive schemes be changed so that energy end-users directly benefit from reductions in energy usage?

We hope this list inspired you to find a sustainability topic for research papers.

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Are you looking for environmental research paper topics? With ongoing debates about global warming, air pollution, and other issues, there is no shortage of exciting topics to craft a research paper around. Whether you’re studying ecology, geology, or marine biology, developing the perfect environmental research topic to get your science research assignment off the ground can be challenging. Stop worrying – we got you covered. Continue reading to learn about 235 different ideas on environmental research topics. In this article, we will discuss environmental topics and show you how to choose an interesting research topic for your subject. We will also provide a list of various environmental topics from our research paper services . In addition, we will present you with environmental science research topics, discuss other ideas about the environment for research papers, and offer our final thoughts on these topics for research papers.

What Are Environmental Topics?

Environmental topics provide an analysis of environmental issues and their effect on people, culture, nature, or a particular place, often interdisciplinary, drawing from sciences, politics, economics, sociology, and public policy. Topics about environmental science may include environmental justice, engineering and communication, regulation, economics, and health. Environment research topics may focus on environmental sustainability, impact assessment, management systems, and resources. In addition, these areas for research papers offer a few opportunities to explore our relationship with the environment and consider how human activities influence it through climate change, pollution, or other factors such as natural resource usage as well as biodiversity loss.

What Makes a Good Environmental Research Topic?

When choosing an environmental research topic, it is essential to consider what makes good environmental topics. Below is an expert list outlining what your topic should be like:

It should be interesting and relevant to your study field.
It's essential to consider the topic's potential implications on environment-related policies. Think about the possible positive or negative effects this topic could have when implemented in terms of protecting our environment.
A good topic should be specific enough to provide a focus for your research paper and allow you to explore a particular issue in depth.
The research topic should be feasible and manageable to ensure that you can find the necessary information and resources.
Environmental sciences research topics should be current and relevant to ecological developments.

How to Choose Environmental Science Topics?

When choosing research topics for environmental science, it is essential to research the available information and determine its relevance. It all depends on whether the research topic is feasible and has the potential for exploration. Environmental issue topics should be well-defined and interesting to the researcher. The reason is that the researcher should be able to provide solutions or make suggestions on improvement strategies. You can follow the below steps when choosing environmental science topics for research:

Step 1: Identify topics that are relevant to your research context. Step 2: Develop a list of research areas by extracting critical concepts from the available literature.

Step 3: Select interesting and feasible topics by considering the methods available for analysis.

Step 4: Analyze these topics to identify the gaps in current research and formulate questions for further investigation. Step 5: Review the available literature to gain insights about the chosen topic and develop a research proposal.

Step 6: Consult experts in this field to get feedback and refine the proposed research.

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List of Environment Research Paper Topics

Environmental topics for a research paper can be overwhelming to navigate due to the vast number of issues you can discuss in your article. To help narrow down your research paper search, below is a list of environmental research topics that include climate change, renewable energy, ecology, pollution, sustainability, endangered species, ecosystems, nature, and water management. You can choose one of them as a guide to writing an excellent essay

Environmental Research Topics on Climate Change

Climate change is one of the most pressing issues that humanity is currently facing due to increased temperature levels. Climate change is amongst the most debated environmental research topics among researchers, policymakers, and governments. Here are critical areas related to climate change that you can use for your environmental science research paper topics:

Causes and effects of climate change.
Climate change adaptation strategies.
Climate change impact on rural communities.
Role of renewable energy sources in mitigating climate change.
Carbon dioxide emission policies.
Global warming and its impact on ocean acidification.
Social effects of climate change.
Permafrost melting and its implications.
Role of international organizations in climate change.
Climate change and forest fire: examining the role of climate change on wildfire season, frequency, and burned area.

Environmental Science Research Topics on Renewable Energy

Renewable energy is essential due to its potential to reduce ecological damage from burning fossil fuels and provides valuable topics in environmental science. You can use renewable energy technologies as a cleaner alternative for generating electricity and heating. In addition, renewable energy is crucial for cooling homes and factories in the world. The following are environmental science topics for research paper on renewable energy:

Renewable energy types, sources, and their impact on the environment.
Economic benefits of renewable energy.
Research on new technologies in renewable energy.
Role of renewable energy in protecting businesses from legal actions.
Hydropower and its role in renewable energy.
Chemical batteries for renewable energy storage.
Green microgrids in optimizing renewable energy usage.
Ocean energy and its effects on the environment.
Geothermal drilling and its consequences.
Biomass resources and their use in renewable energy.

Environment Research Topics on Ecology

Ecology studies how living organisms interact with each other and their environment. Also, it is an important area of research for understanding how the environment affects the function of various species and ecosystems. It also gives a background for one of the best environment research paper topics. Below are topics for environmental research paper on ecology:

Biodiversity conservation strategies.
Impact of pollution on ecosystems.
Ecological research on saving endangered species from extinction.
Role of environment in migrations patterns of animals.
Habitat fragmentation effects on the environment.
Ecological implications of climate change.
Ecology and pest control strategies.
Ecological effects of deforestation.
Ecology and conservation of marine life.
Ecological consequences of urbanization.

Research Topics in Environmental Science About Pollution

Pollution is an issue at the forefront of scientific research. As one of the environmental science paper topics, it offers insights into how pollution destroys the environment and its negative impact on human and animal health. Stated below are hot environmental science research topics on pollution which you can use for your article:

Air pollution: causes & effects.
Water pollution and its consequences for people and other living organisms.
Issue of urban & industrial pollution.
Noise pollution and environment-related health risks.
Marine plastic pollution in oceans.
Radiological waste disposal policies.
Nuclear energy, radiation & health impacts.
Sustainable waste management solutions.
Impact of pollution on biodiversity.
Soil pollution and its effects on agriculture.

Environmental Topics for Research Papers on Sustainability

One of the many topics for environmental research papers is sustainability. Sustainability is an important topic to explore, as it involves finding a way for humans to reduce their ecological footprint and ensure that the environment can recover from our activities. Stated below are environmental topics for research paper on sustainability which you can explore:

Strategies for sustainable development.
Renewable energy sources and their effects.
Environmental sustainability and its economic benefits.
Sustainable energy sources and their effects.
Implications of sustainable agriculture on the environment.
Ecological impacts of sustainable forestry.
Social implications of renewable energy use.
Strategies for mitigating ecological impact from unsustainable development.
Psychological effects of ecological awareness on sustainable practices.
Influence of ecological sustainability on economic growth.

Environmental Topics to Write About Endangered Species

Endangered species are one of the environmental topics of great importance to research and find solutions for their conservation. Poaching, habitat destruction, and climate change negatively impact endangered species. Also, human activities have put other species at risk of extinction by competing for resources as well as introducing invasive species. Below is a list of cool environment topics to write about endangered species:

Endangered species conservation.
Causes & effects of habitat fragmentation.
Wildlife conservation strategies.
Climate change impacts on endangered species.
Illegal wildlife trade and trafficking.
Marine protected areas for conserving marine life.
Ecological restoration and reintroduction programs.
Endangered species in developing nations.
Human rights & animal welfare laws .
Captive breeding for conservation purposes.

Environmental Research Paper Topics on Ecosystems

Ecosystems are fascinating to explore in environmental paper topics because they contain a variety of living organisms and are a complex web of interactions between species, the environment, and humans. The subject provides environmental issues topics for research paper essential in exploring the dynamics of ecosystems and their importance. Below is a list of topics for environmental science research paper:

Ecosystem services & their value.
Climate change impacts on ecosystems.
Hydrological cycle & effects on ecosystems.
Ecological restoration & biodiversity conservation.
Invasive species & their impact on native species.
Biodiversity hotspots: areas of high endemism.
Soil degradation & its impact on ecosystems.
Sustainable forestry practices.
Ecological restoration of wetlands.

Environmental Topics About Nature

Nature is a broad topic that includes ecological conservation, protection, and sustainability issues. Environmental research topics about nature allow us to explore areas that focus on preserving and conserving the environment. Research papers about nature can provide insight into utilizing nature as a resource, both from a practical and ecological aspect. Below is a list of environment topics that you can explore in your essays:

Nature conservation & preservation strategies.
Climate change effects on natural environments.
Natural resource management strategies.
Policies for natural resources management.
Impact of human development on wildlands.
Sustainable use of natural resources.
Role of ethics in nature conservation.
De-extinction: pros & cons of bringing back extinct species.
Protected areas & conservation of rare species.

Environmental Issues Topics on Water Management

Water management is an issue that has a significant impact on the environment. Exploring a topic related to water management can provide experts, among others, with insights into environmental science issues and their implications. When it's time to write your project related to water management, you can explore the following topics for environmental issues:

Water pollution & its control.
Groundwater management strategies.
Climate change impact on water resources.
Integrated water resources management.
Wetland conservation & restoration projects.
Industrial effluents role in water pollution.
Desalination technologies for freshwater production.
Urbanization impact on groundwater resources.
Inland & coastal water management strategies.
Wastewater treatment & reuse technologies.

Environmental Science Topics in Different Areas

Environmental science studies ecological processes and their interactions with living organisms. Exploring environmental science related topics can provide valuable insights into environmental science issues, their ecological implications, and conservation efforts. In addition, these topics can also be explored in different areas, providing a comprehensive understanding of how different factors impact the environment. This section delves into various environmental science topics for projects related to law, justice, policy, economics, biology, chemistry, and health science.

Environmental Law Research Topics

Environmental law governs environmental processes and their interactions with living organisms. Delving into environmental law can uncover invaluable information on environment paper topics, ranging from legal matters and their consequences to preservation initiatives. Students can use the following environmental issue topics for research papers for their essays:

Climate change liability & lawsuits.
Strategies for conservation and protection under environmental law.
Consequences of non-compliance with regulations on the environment.
Impact of trade agreements on environment protection.
Regulatory strategies for hazardous waste disposal.
Strategies for enforcement and compliance with environment-related laws.
International environment treaties and their implications.
Effects of climate change legislation on the environment.
Corporate environmental policies and regulations and their effects.
Role of law in mitigating environment-related issues.

Environmental Justice Research Topics

Environmental justice seeks to ensure equitable treatment and meaningful involvement of all people in ecological protection, regardless of their race, sex, or economic status. Environment topics related to justice can provide valuable insights into ecological issues and their impacts. Listed below are justice-related Environmental topics to research:

Implications of unequal access to resources.
Disproportionate impacts of climate change on vulnerable populations.
Consequences of marginalization of marginalized communities from environmental processes.
Links between poverty and environment degradation.
Effects of non-participation in environment-related decision-making.
Policies to ensure access to clean air and water.
Impact of social inequality on environment protection.
Intersection between gender, race, and environment justice.
Ecological consequences of corporate negligence of marginalized communities.
Disproportionate implications of climate change on vulnerable populations.

Environmental Policy Research Paper Topics

Environmental policy is a set of laws, rules, and regulations created to protect the environment as well as its resources. Studying environment-related policies provides an area for students to explore a range of subjects related to the environment, ranging from local to global. Below are potential environmental sciences research topics for your reference.

Environmental policy initiatives' implications on global climate change.
Effectiveness of carbon taxes for air pollution control.
Land use and development impact on the environment.
Water quality in the united states, focusing on natural resource governance.
Educational initiative's impact on public opinion and policy outcomes.
Social aspects of policy making and implementation on the environment.
Promoting sustainability from a global perspective.
Potential for justice initiatives in promoting equitable and effective management.
Rise of green economy its impact.
Environment policies and their potential for success.

Environmental Economics Research Topics

Environmental economics seeks to understand environmental issues from an economic perspective. Examining environmental studies topics can offer insights into ecological conservation and sustainability while connecting protection efforts with economic interests and helping inform policies. The following are creative topics about environmental science related to economics:

Economic impacts of regulating the environment.
Strategies for environmentally sustainable economic growth.
Consequences of non-compliance with environment-related regulations.
Environment conservation and protection using economic incentives.
Taxes and subsidies and their implications on the environment.
Economic implications of climate change legislation.
The private sector role in environment conservation and protection.
Green finance role in mitigating ecological issues.
Economics of pollution control and management.
Conservation and protection of the environment in the face of economic interests.

>> Learn more: Economics Research Topics

Environmental Biology Research Topics

Environmental biology is a field of science that focuses on understanding the interactions between living organisms and their environment. It covers environmental biology topics such as biodiversity, conservation, pollution, management, health, and sustainability. The following are environment research paper topics related to biology:

Biodiversity conservation in managing the environment.
Role of biotechnology in reducing air pollution.
Environment degradation and its consequences on wildlife.
Role of microorganisms in maintaining soil fertility.
Ecological consequences of over-exploitation of natural resources.
Habitat fragmentation and its role in species conservation.
Education's role in environment conservation.
Environment degradation and its effects on food security.
Invasive species and their impacts on ecosystem.

Keep in mind that we have a whole blog on biological topics if you need more ideas in this field.

Environmental Chemistry Research Topics

Environmental chemistry research is a complex interdisciplinary field aiming to understand the behavior of a chemical process within an environment. It involves researching the impact of pollutants in the air, soil, water, and other ecological media. Possible research topics about the environment related to this field include:

Effect of agricultural chemicals on water systems.
Air pollution control strategies and their effectiveness.
Climate change impacts on aquatic ecosystems.
Sources and implications of persistent organic pollutants.
Air quality monitoring for urban areas.
Water quality monitoring in coastal areas.
Characterization and fate of toxic compounds in soil and groundwater.
Impact of hazardous chemical waste on the environment.
Monitoring and remediation of contaminated sites.
The roles of environmental chemistry in climate change research.

Need more ideas? There is one more blog with chemistry research topics on our platform.

Environmental Health Science Research Topics

Environmental health is a diverse field focusing on the natural environment as well as its effects on human health. It is an interdisciplinary field that offers environment topics for research, such as environmental epidemiology, toxicology, and ecology, in addition to risk assessment. Provided below is a list of topics for an environmental science project that is suitable for your research paper:

Air pollution effects on human health.
Climate change effects on health.
Water pollution and public health.
Noise pollution effects on well-being.
Mental health effects of environment-related toxins.
Human health effects of natural disasters.
Urbanization's effect on human health.
Sustainable development and public health.
Role of social media in promoting environmental health and awareness.
Biodiversity preservation and its impact on human health.

Other Ideas & Topics About Environment for Research Papers

Ecological crisis is a key issue that has continuously affected planet earth. People are becoming more aware of environmental problems as well as their impact on health, well-being, and quality of life. As such, ecological fields for research are becoming ever more critical. This section will explore interesting environmental topics related to current ecological issues, controversial, interesting topics, easy research questions for projects, as well as unique research areas which students might study. These environmental issue project ideas below will help you develop interesting fields for research papers.

Current Issues in Environmental Science

Current ecological issues are a hot topic that has become increasingly important. They provide outstanding environmental issues to write about due to their impact on the environment and human health. The following are environmental issue topics for paper writing that are currently in discussion:

Global warming and how to prevent its impact.
Sustainable energy and its role in protecting the environment.
Water conservation practices.
Renewable energy role in global ecological protection.
Carbon footprint and climate change.
Ozone layer depletion and its effects on human health.
Plastic pollution and its impact.
Land degradation and soil erosion.
Energy industry activities effects on ecological health.
Air pollution and its impact on human health.
Deforestation and its consequences.
Effect of agricultural practices on ecological health.
Overuse and exploitation of natural resources.
Industrial waste impact on health.
Green technology role in ecological protection.

Controversial Environmental Topics for Research Paper

Environmental controversies constitute a significant challenge facing society today. From climate change to air and water pollution, the effects of human activity on our natural environment are increasingly becoming a focus of public debate and research. Research papers on environmental controversial topics can help inform the public as well as policymakers about the potential impacts of human activities on the environment. The following are examples of environmental controversy topics for research paper:

Climate change: is human activity a primary cause of global warming.
Deforestation: are current logging practices sustainable in the long term.
Air pollution: what are the health impacts of air pollution.
Water pollution: how is water pollution impacting biodiversity and ecosystems.
Geothermal energy: what potential impacts does geothermal energy extraction have on the environment.
Renewable energy: are wind and solar energy carbon-neutral.
Arctic drilling: is drilling for oil in the arctic ocean a viable option given current climate conditions.
Nuclear power: what health risks are associated with nuclear power plants.
Biodiversity loss: what steps can you take to protect biodiversity from human activities.
Endangered species: how protecting endangered species can impact conservation efforts and how they live.
GMO foods: are genetically modified organisms safe for human consumption? how does GMO food affect humans.
Pesticides: how does pesticide use affect our health and the environment.
Ocean acidification: how is ocean acidification impacting marine ecosystems.
Waste management: what are the most effective ways to manage waste and reduce pollution.
Resource exploitation: how does the exploitation of natural resources impact local communities.

Interesting Environmental Research Topics

In the context of environmental subjects, research topics explore the effects of human activities on the environment as well as the potential solutions to the identified problems. In addition to providing insight into ecological protection and conservation, research areas in this category cover social issues related to environmentalism and ecological justice. Below are interesting environmental science topics to consider when looking for a research topic in the future:

Effects of environment-related toxins on human health.
Climate change effects on coastal habitats.
Agricultural activities impacts on the environment.
Groundwater contamination and its effects on water quality.
Pollution from factories and its impact on the environment.
Waste management strategies and their impacts.
Consequences of water contamination on local wildlife.
Impacts of mining.
Deforestation effects on ecosystems and species diversity.
Industrial fishing practices effects.
Sustainable forestry practices and their impact on ecosystems.
Nuclear energy production and its consequences.
Reducing emissions from vehicles and their effects on air quality.
Landfills implications on the environment.
Implications of plastic pollution.

Easy Environmental Research Questions for Projects

When it comes to environmental science topics for project work, there are plenty of easy options. Research projects in this category can explore ecological issues as well as their consequences or potential solutions to these problems. The following is a list of the top fifteen most accessible environment project topics for your research project.

Air pollution levels impact on urban areas.
Agricultural practices effects on the environment.
Developing strategies for sustainable development.
Causes of water contamination.
Factors contributing to global warming.
Natural disasters effects on the environment.
Land use changes effects on the environment.
Energy consumption impacts on the environment.
Climate change effects on the environment.
Industrialization and its consequences.
Impact of plastic pollution.
Health risks associated with air pollution.
Deforestation impacts on the environment.
Soil erosion and its effects on the environment.
Causes and consequences of species extinction.

Unique Environmental Research Topics for Students

As environmental issues become increasingly complex, research fields for students become more varied. Unique environmental research topics for college students can range from local ecological concerns to global ones. The following are fifteen unique environmental science research topics for high school students and college students:

Climate change impact on water quality.
Acid rain and its effects.
Urbanization's effect on biodiversity.
Effects of offshore drilling.
Ocean acidification and its impact.
Impact of privatization on natural resources.
Effectiveness of renewable energy sources.
Relationship between energy consumption and the environment.
Potential impacts regarding genetic engineering on biodiversity.
Toxic waste disposal and its impacts.
Environment-related policies impact on water quality.
Deforestation and its effects on soil quality.
Causes and consequences of ozone layer depletion.
Relationship between pollution and public health issues.

Final Thoughts on Environmental Topics for Research Papers

This article has provided 235 environmental science research topics for research papers as well as project work that high school and college students can use. Topics range from local issues, such as assessing air pollution levels in an urban area, to global concerns, like examining the ecological effects of plastic pollution. Whether its health risks are associated with air pollution in an environment or the impacts of industrialization, research can help shape your understanding of how to protect as well as preserve our planet. It is up to the students to identify good environmental research topics that are interesting and relevant to them and to delve deeper to understand the earth better.

Get in touch with our academic writing service and receive expert help. Let us know your topic, pay for research paper and get an excellent result in no time.

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Research Topics & Ideas: Environment

100+ Environmental Science Research Topics & Ideas

Research topics and ideas within the environmental sciences

Finding and choosing a strong research topic is the critical first step when it comes to crafting a high-quality dissertation, thesis or research project. Here, we’ll explore a variety research ideas and topic thought-starters related to various environmental science disciplines, including ecology, oceanography, hydrology, geology, soil science, environmental chemistry, environmental economics, and environmental ethics.

NB – This is just the start…

The topic ideation and evaluation process has multiple steps . In this post, we’ll kickstart the process by sharing some research topic ideas within the environmental sciences. This is the starting point though. To develop a well-defined research topic, you’ll need to identify a clear and convincing research gap , along with a well-justified plan of action to fill that gap.

If you’re new to the oftentimes perplexing world of research, or if this is your first time undertaking a formal academic research project, be sure to check out our free dissertation mini-course. Also be sure to also sign up for our free webinar that explores how to develop a high-quality research topic from scratch.

Overview: Environmental Topics

Ecology /ecological science
Atmospheric science
Oceanography
Soil science
Environmental chemistry
Environmental economics
Environmental ethics
Examples of dissertations and theses

Topics & Ideas: Ecological Science

The impact of land-use change on species diversity and ecosystem functioning in agricultural landscapes
The role of disturbances such as fire and drought in shaping arid ecosystems
The impact of climate change on the distribution of migratory marine species
Investigating the role of mutualistic plant-insect relationships in maintaining ecosystem stability
The effects of invasive plant species on ecosystem structure and function
The impact of habitat fragmentation caused by road construction on species diversity and population dynamics in the tropics
The role of ecosystem services in urban areas and their economic value to a developing nation
The effectiveness of different grassland restoration techniques in degraded ecosystems
The impact of land-use change through agriculture and urbanisation on soil microbial communities in a temperate environment
The role of microbial diversity in ecosystem health and nutrient cycling in an African savannah

Topics & Ideas: Atmospheric Science

The impact of climate change on atmospheric circulation patterns above tropical rainforests
The role of atmospheric aerosols in cloud formation and precipitation above cities with high pollution levels
The impact of agricultural land-use change on global atmospheric composition
Investigating the role of atmospheric convection in severe weather events in the tropics
The impact of urbanisation on regional and global atmospheric ozone levels
The impact of sea surface temperature on atmospheric circulation and tropical cyclones
The impact of solar flares on the Earth’s atmospheric composition
The impact of climate change on atmospheric turbulence and air transportation safety
The impact of stratospheric ozone depletion on atmospheric circulation and climate change
The role of atmospheric rivers in global water supply and sea-ice formation

Topics & Ideas: Oceanography

The impact of ocean acidification on kelp forests and biogeochemical cycles
The role of ocean currents in distributing heat and regulating desert rain
The impact of carbon monoxide pollution on ocean chemistry and biogeochemical cycles
Investigating the role of ocean mixing in regulating coastal climates
The impact of sea level rise on the resource availability of low-income coastal communities
The impact of ocean warming on the distribution and migration patterns of marine mammals
The impact of ocean deoxygenation on biogeochemical cycles in the arctic
The role of ocean-atmosphere interactions in regulating rainfall in arid regions
The impact of ocean eddies on global ocean circulation and plankton distribution
The role of ocean-ice interactions in regulating the Earth’s climate and sea level

Tops & Ideas: Hydrology

The impact of agricultural land-use change on water resources and hydrologic cycles in temperate regions
The impact of agricultural groundwater availability on irrigation practices in the global south
The impact of rising sea-surface temperatures on global precipitation patterns and water availability
Investigating the role of wetlands in regulating water resources for riparian forests
The impact of tropical ranches on river and stream ecosystems and water quality
The impact of urbanisation on regional and local hydrologic cycles and water resources for agriculture
The role of snow cover and mountain hydrology in regulating regional agricultural water resources
The impact of drought on food security in arid and semi-arid regions
The role of groundwater recharge in sustaining water resources in arid and semi-arid environments
The impact of sea level rise on coastal hydrology and the quality of water resources

Research Topic Kickstarter - Need Help Finding A Research Topic?

Topics & Ideas: Geology

The impact of tectonic activity on the East African rift valley
The role of mineral deposits in shaping ancient human societies
The impact of sea-level rise on coastal geomorphology and shoreline evolution
Investigating the role of erosion in shaping the landscape and impacting desertification
The impact of mining on soil stability and landslide potential
The impact of volcanic activity on incoming solar radiation and climate
The role of geothermal energy in decarbonising the energy mix of megacities
The impact of Earth’s magnetic field on geological processes and solar wind
The impact of plate tectonics on the evolution of mammals
The role of the distribution of mineral resources in shaping human societies and economies, with emphasis on sustainability

Topics & Ideas: Soil Science

The impact of dam building on soil quality and fertility
The role of soil organic matter in regulating nutrient cycles in agricultural land
The impact of climate change on soil erosion and soil organic carbon storage in peatlands
Investigating the role of above-below-ground interactions in nutrient cycling and soil health
The impact of deforestation on soil degradation and soil fertility
The role of soil texture and structure in regulating water and nutrient availability in boreal forests
The impact of sustainable land management practices on soil health and soil organic matter
The impact of wetland modification on soil structure and function
The role of soil-atmosphere exchange and carbon sequestration in regulating regional and global climate
The impact of salinization on soil health and crop productivity in coastal communities

Topics & Ideas: Environmental Chemistry

The impact of cobalt mining on water quality and the fate of contaminants in the environment
The role of atmospheric chemistry in shaping air quality and climate change
The impact of soil chemistry on nutrient availability and plant growth in wheat monoculture
Investigating the fate and transport of heavy metal contaminants in the environment
The impact of climate change on biochemical cycling in tropical rainforests
The impact of various types of land-use change on biochemical cycling
The role of soil microbes in mediating contaminant degradation in the environment
The impact of chemical and oil spills on freshwater and soil chemistry
The role of atmospheric nitrogen deposition in shaping water and soil chemistry
The impact of over-irrigation on the cycling and fate of persistent organic pollutants in the environment

Topics & Ideas: Environmental Economics

The impact of climate change on the economies of developing nations
The role of market-based mechanisms in promoting sustainable use of forest resources
The impact of environmental regulations on economic growth and competitiveness
Investigating the economic benefits and costs of ecosystem services for African countries
The impact of renewable energy policies on regional and global energy markets
The role of water markets in promoting sustainable water use in southern Africa
The impact of land-use change in rural areas on regional and global economies
The impact of environmental disasters on local and national economies
The role of green technologies and innovation in shaping the zero-carbon transition and the knock-on effects for local economies
The impact of environmental and natural resource policies on income distribution and poverty of rural communities

Topics & Ideas: Environmental Ethics

The ethical foundations of environmentalism and the environmental movement regarding renewable energy
The role of values and ethics in shaping environmental policy and decision-making in the mining industry
The impact of cultural and religious beliefs on environmental attitudes and behaviours in first world countries
Investigating the ethics of biodiversity conservation and the protection of endangered species in palm oil plantations
The ethical implications of sea-level rise for future generations and vulnerable coastal populations
The role of ethical considerations in shaping sustainable use of natural forest resources
The impact of environmental justice on marginalized communities and environmental policies in Asia
The ethical implications of environmental risks and decision-making under uncertainty
The role of ethics in shaping the transition to a low-carbon, sustainable future for the construction industry
The impact of environmental values on consumer behaviour and the marketplace: a case study of the ‘bring your own shopping bag’ policy

Examples: Real Dissertation & Thesis Topics

While the ideas we’ve presented above are a decent starting point for finding a research topic, they are fairly generic and non-specific. So, it helps to look at actual dissertations and theses to see how this all comes together.

Below, we’ve included a selection of research projects from various environmental science-related degree programs to help refine your thinking. These are actual dissertations and theses, written as part of Master’s and PhD-level programs, so they can provide some useful insight as to what a research topic looks like in practice.

The physiology of microorganisms in enhanced biological phosphorous removal (Saunders, 2014)
The influence of the coastal front on heavy rainfall events along the east coast (Henson, 2019)
Forage production and diversification for climate-smart tropical and temperate silvopastures (Dibala, 2019)
Advancing spectral induced polarization for near surface geophysical characterization (Wang, 2021)
Assessment of Chromophoric Dissolved Organic Matter and Thamnocephalus platyurus as Tools to Monitor Cyanobacterial Bloom Development and Toxicity (Hipsher, 2019)
Evaluating the Removal of Microcystin Variants with Powdered Activated Carbon (Juang, 2020)
The effect of hydrological restoration on nutrient concentrations, macroinvertebrate communities, and amphibian populations in Lake Erie coastal wetlands (Berg, 2019)
Utilizing hydrologic soil grouping to estimate corn nitrogen rate recommendations (Bean, 2019)
Fungal Function in House Dust and Dust from the International Space Station (Bope, 2021)
Assessing Vulnerability and the Potential for Ecosystem-based Adaptation (EbA) in Sudan’s Blue Nile Basin (Mohamed, 2022)
A Microbial Water Quality Analysis of the Recreational Zones in the Los Angeles River of Elysian Valley, CA (Nguyen, 2019)
Dry Season Water Quality Study on Three Recreational Sites in the San Gabriel Mountains (Vallejo, 2019)
Wastewater Treatment Plan for Unix Packaging Adjustment of the Potential Hydrogen (PH) Evaluation of Enzymatic Activity After the Addition of Cycle Disgestase Enzyme (Miessi, 2020)
Laying the Genetic Foundation for the Conservation of Longhorn Fairy Shrimp (Kyle, 2021).

Looking at these titles, you can probably pick up that the research topics here are quite specific and narrowly-focused , compared to the generic ones presented earlier. To create a top-notch research topic, you will need to be precise and target a specific context with specific variables of interest . In other words, you’ll need to identify a clear, well-justified research gap.

Need more help?

If you’re still feeling a bit unsure about how to find a research topic for your environmental science dissertation or research project, be sure to check out our private coaching services below, as well as our Research Topic Kickstarter .

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The Top 30 Global Sustainability Research Papers in 2019

In 2019, record-high global temperatures and climate change took central stage in global news headlines, culminating with a declaration from more than 11,000 scientists from around the world that a climate emergency exists on Earth. This declaration got people talking on social media and in the news, more so than any other scientific publication in 2019.

Altmetric annually ranks the 100 scientific papers that glean the most media attention as a simple measure of what sparks public interest. In 2019, they examined over 62 million media mentions of 2.7 million research articles. The altmetric score does not measure the calibre of the research or researcher.

At Future Earth, we used the list to identify the top 30 global sustainability articles. We were guided by the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), which recognize that eradicating poverty in all its forms and dimensions, combating inequality within and among countries, preserving the planet, creating sustained, inclusive and sustainable economic growth, and fostering social inclusion are linked to each other and are interdependent.

Taking a closer look at the top five, the rising threat posed by climate change (SDG 13) was a central concern in 2019 as reflected by this year’s top two papers. The health of our oceans (SDG 14) and global terrestrial biodiversity (SDG 15) also find their way into the top five, with the third ranked paper discussing increasing vulnerability to sea level rise and coastal flooding, while the fourth ranked paper examines the potential of global reforestation to mitigate the effects of climate change. Rounding out the top five, a global study between 1990-2017 analyzed the health effects linked to dietary risks (SDG 3). Together, these papers reflect the many connections among natural and human systems by highlighting just how important the life supporting SDGs (6, 13, 14, and 15) are to supporting healthy, equitable, and sustainable livelihoods on Earth.

Of the top 30, nearly half of the global sustainability articles are concerned with climate change, with another third related to health, nutrition, and climate. Papers discussing biodiversity and plastics also make their way onto the list.

Read on for the full top 30 of 2019 and see earlier lists here (January – April 2019 ), here (May – August 2019 ) and here (2018 in review) .

The top 30 global sustainability articles in 2019, by Altmetric score:

World Scientists’ Warning of a Climate Emergency (November 2019) BioScience . Altmetric score: 10,966
Climate tipping points too risky to bet against (November 2019) Nature . Altmetric score: 8556
New elevation data triple estimates of global vulnerability to sea-level rise and coastal flooding (October 2019) Nature Communications . Altmetric score: 7,135
The global tree restoration potential (July 2019) Science . Altmetric score: 6,356
Health effects of dietary risks in 195 countries, 1990–2017: a systematic analysis for the Global Burden of Disease Study 2017 (April 2019) The Lancet . Altmetric score: 5,868
Worldwide decline of the entomofauna: A review of its drivers (April 2019) Biological Conservation . Altmetric score: 5,438
Food in the Anthropocene: the EAT-Lancet Commission on healthy diets from sustainable foods (February 2019) The Lancet . Altmetric score: 4,561
Committed emissions from existing energy infrastructure jeopardize 1.5°C climate target (August 2019) Nature . Altmetric score: 4,434
Concerns of young protesters are justified (April 2019) Science . Altmetric score: 4,349
Global warming impairs stock-recruitment dynamics of corals (April 2019) Nature . Altmetric score: 4,121
Eat less meat: UN climate-change report calls for change to human diet (August 2019) Nature . Altmetric score: 3,861
No evidence for globally coherent warm and cold periods over the preindustrial Common Era (July 2019) Nature . Altmetric score: 3,898
Decline of the North American avifauna (October 2019) Science . Altmetric score: 3,368
Earth system impacts of the European arrival and the Great Dying in the Americas after 1492 (March 2019) Quaternary Science Reviews . Altmetric score: 3,290
Spending at least 120 minutes in a week in nature is associated with good health and wellbeing (June 2019) Scientific Reports . Altmetric score: 3,249
Permafrost collapse is accelerating carbon release (April 2019) Nature . Altmetric score: 3,014
The Global Syndemic of Obesity, Undernutrition, and Climate Change: The Lancet Commission Report (February 2019) The Lancet . Altmetric score: 2,973
How fast are the oceans warming? (January 2019) Science . Altmetric score: 2,882
Acceleration of ice loss across the Himalayas over the past 40 years (June 2019) Science Advances . Altmetric score: 2,767
The 2019 report of the Lancet Countdown on health and climate change: ensuring that the health of a child born today is not defined by climate change (November 2019) The Lancet . Altmetric score: 2,752
40 years ago, scientists predicted climate change. And hey, they were right (July 2019) The Conversation . Altmetric score: 2,724
Ice sheet contributions to future sea level rise from structured expert judgment (May 2019) PNAS . Altmetric score: 2,620
Dissecting racial bias in an algorithm used to manage the health of populations (October 2019) Science . Altmetric score: 2,584.
International humanitarian norms are violated in Hong Kong (December 2019) The Lancet . Altmetric score: 2,538
Four decades of Antarctic Ice Sheet mass balance from 1979-2017 (January 2019) PNAS . Altmetric score: 2,494
Urban Nature Experiences Reduce Stress in the Context of Daily Life Based on Salivary Biomarkers (April 2019) Frontiers in Psychology . Altmetric score: 2,312
Plastic Teabags Release Billions of Microparticles and Nanoparticles into Tea (September 2019) Environmental Science and Technology . Altmetric score: 2,305
White and wonderful? Microplastics prevail in snow from the Alps to the Arctic (August 2019) Science Advances . Altmetric score: 2,253
Arthropod decline in grasslands and forests is associated with landscape-level drivers (October 2019) Nature . Altmetric score: 2,240
Nudging out support for a carbon tax (May 2019) Nature Climate Change . Altmetric score: 2,190

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Understanding The Concept Of Environmental Science

Table of Contents

Environmental science is a multidimensional field that examines relationships between human beings and the environment. It delves into understanding, protecting, and sustaining our planet’s health. Here’s a quick glance.

What is Environmental Science?

Interdisciplinary Study: Environmental science combines elements of biology, chemistry, physics, geology, and social sciences to understand environmental issues comprehensively.
Study of Systems: It focuses on ecosystems, examining how various components interact and influence each other within the environment.

Key Components

Biodiversity: Understanding and conserving the variety of life forms on Earth.
Climate Change: Examining the impacts of human activities on the Earth’s climate system.
Pollution: Investigating the sources, effects, and mitigation strategies for air, water, and soil pollution.
Resource Management: Exploring sustainable practices for using and conserving natural resources.

Importance of Environmental Science

Critical Problem-Solving: Addresses pressing issues like habitat loss, water scarcity, and global warming.
Policy Formation: Provides scientific data to guide environmental policies and regulations.
Community Engagement: Educates and involves communities in environmental conservation efforts.

Careers in Environmental Science

Environmental Scientist: Conducts research to identify and solve environmental problems.
Conservation Biologist: Focuses on protecting and managing natural resources.
Environmental Engineer: Designs systems to address environmental challenges.

Future Challenges

Sustainable Development: It includes Balancing economic growth via environmental conservation.
Climate Resilience: Adapting to and mitigating the impacts of climate change.
Global Cooperation: Addressing environmental issues requires international collaboration.

Environmental science plays a pivotal role in shaping policies, technologies, and behaviors that contribute to a sustainable future. Understanding its significance empowers us to take proactive steps in preserving our planet for generations to come.

Updated 2024: Top 150 Environmental Science Research Topics

Now we are presenting an extensive collection of current and relevant subjects shaping the field. Covering climate change, biodiversity conservation, pollution, renewable energy, and much more, this curated list reflects the latest trends and pressing issues in environmental science. Dive into these topics to explore cutting edge research opportunities and contribute to the solutions that our planet urgently needs.

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Carbon-efficient carbon dioxide electrolysers

Renewable electricity-powered CO 2 electroreduction offers a sustainable route to transform the chemical industry. Here the authors overview four CO 2 electrolysis pathways that could be immune from carbonate formation, a major technological barrier.

Adnan Ozden
F. Pelayo García de Arquer
David Sinton

The contributions of resilience to reshaping sustainable development

This article reviews the past decade of literature reporting the application of resilience science in sustainable development practice. Although innovative complexity-oriented practices have emerged, the article shows that dominant applications diverge substantially from the science.

Belinda Reyers
Michele-Lee Moore
Maja Schlüter

Recognizing the long-term impacts of plastic particles for preventing distortion in decision-making

There is a growing awareness that plastic pollution poses a major environmental threat. This Review highlights the knowledge gap on their long-term impacts and recommends inclusion in life cycle analysis for better decision-making.

Nathalie Gontard
Grégoire David
Joshua Sohn

Sensing as the key to battery lifetime and sustainability

Today’s energy systems rely on rechargeable batteries but the growing demand raises environmental concerns. As more data become available, sensing can play a key role in advancing utilization strategies for new and used lithium-ion devices. This Review discusses how optical sensors can help to improve the sustainability of batteries.

Jiaqiang Huang
Steven T. Boles
Jean-Marie Tarascon

The political effects of emergency frames in sustainability

Emergency frames in sustainability debates can stimulate collective action on issues for which it is lacking but can have consequences. This Review examines the political effects of emergency frames in sustainability and develops a typology of different effects to build a shared vocabulary for analysis and decision-making.

James Patterson
Carina Wyborn
Dhanasree Jayaram

A global review of ecological fiscal transfers

The transfer of public funds between governments within a country based on ecological indicators is an emerging tool in environmental policy. A review of extant and proposed schemes identifies challenges and opportunities to expand the use of this instrument.

Jonah Busch

Solar-driven reforming of solid waste for a sustainable future

Photoreforming is a sunlight-driven technology that can simultaneously reclaim the value in waste and contribute to renewable hydrogen production. This Review examines the advantages and challenges and identifies ways forward.

Taylor Uekert
Christian M. Pichler
Erwin Reisner

Microbial deterioration and sustainable conservation of stone monuments and buildings

Biodeterioration of stone monuments and buildings can lead to a loss of world cultural heritage. This Review discusses the role of microbes in the deterioration processes, the biochemical mechanisms involved and possible strategies for sustainable conservation of stone monuments and buildings.

Robert J. Koestler

Leather-like material biofabrication using fungi

Fungi-derived material can substitute for leather. This Review synthesizes information on this process and its environmental and ethical benefits.

Mitchell Jones
Antoni Gandia
Alexander Bismarck

Rethinking wastewater risks and monitoring in light of the COVID-19 pandemic

Converging evidence indicates that SARS-CoVs are present in wastewater for several days with potential health risks. This Review analyses knowledge about such risks as well as the potential spread of SARS-CoVs in waterborne, waterborne–aerosolized and waterborne–foodborne pathways during a pandemic.

Anne Bogler
Aaron Packman
Edo Bar-Zeev

Challenges to the sustainability of deep-seabed mining

This Review covers the sustainability of deep-seabed mining, suggesting a slower transition from exploration to exploitation may be beneficial.

Lisa A. Levin
Diva J. Amon
Hannah Lily

Culture and low-carbon energy transitions

Culture influences low-carbon energy transitions and as a result should be considered in the design of relevant policies. Focusing on a selection of low-carbon technologies and behavioural practices, this Review highlights the role of culture with respect to different dimensions of sustainability.

Benjamin K. Sovacool
Steve Griffiths

The ocean genome and future prospects for conservation and equity

The ocean genome is the genetic material present in marine biodiversity. While technological advances are enabling exploration, conservation and innovation of this resource, the associated capacities are inequitably distributed among countries.

C. C. C. Wabnitz

Integrating climate change in ocean planning

A review of marine spatial planning literature identifies links with climate change and gaps in the practical integration of both concepts.

Catarina Frazão Santos
Tundi Agardy

International conflict and cooperation over freshwater resources

A literature review on transboundary freshwater cooperation and conflict finds the former prevails, followed by non-violent conflict. Despite greater understanding of drivers, analysis of recent events and better datasets are needed.

Thomas Bernauer
Tobias Böhmelt

Research gaps in knowledge of the impact of urban growth on biodiversity

The world is urbanizing. This Review assesses impacts of urban growth on habitat and biodiversity, finding direct impacts more in high-income countries while indirect impacts affect more land but are lesser studied.

Robert I. McDonald
Andressa V. Mansur
Carly Ziter

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Climate change, energy, environment and sustainability topics research guide

What is climate change.

Climate change refers to long-term shifts in temperatures and weather patterns. The world is now warming faster than at any point in recorded history, which disrupts the usual balance of nature and is a threat to human beings and other forms of life on Earth. This topic guide includes sample keywords and search terms, databases to find sources, and samples of online books.

Example keywords and subtopics

Example keywords or search terms:

Climate change
global warming
greenhouse effect or greenhouse gas
climate crisis
environmental change
clean energy
alternative energy or renewable energy
green energy or renewable energy or clean energy
Low carbon or carbon neutral
Carbon offsetting
sustainability environment or sustainability
environmental protection
pollution or contamination
impact or effect or influence
cost or price or expense or money or financial
fossil fuels or coal or oil or gas

Tip: This is a big topic with lots written so you can often focus on one or two subtopics. This will help to find more relevant sources, more quickly and be a better fit for an assignment.

Possible subtopics ideas: Pick one or two subtopics and then add those words to your search.

Health impacts of climate changes (e.g. air pollution, water pollution, etc.)
impacts on a specific city, state, region or country
political impacts (e.g. voting, government policy, etc.)
impact on specific population or culture (e.g. children, elderly, racial or ethic group, country, etc.)
specific types of renewable or alternative energy (e.g. solar, wind, bio, etc.)
example of new technology (e.g. electric cars or electric vehicles or hybrid vehicles
economic impacts (e.g. business, employment, industry (e.g. oil, coal, etc.)
weather and impacts (e.g. rising sea levels, flooding, droughts or heat waves, etc.)
media aspects (e.g. news coverage, advertising, misinformation, movies, music, etc.)
Tutorial: Creating an effective search strategy

Creating an effective search strategy tutorial video. 3 minutes 24 seconds.

Use meaningful keywords to find the best sources
Apply search strategies like AND and OR to connect keywords
Tutorial: What is a library database and why should I use one?

What is a library database and why should I use one tutorial video. 3 minutes.

Identify what a library database is
Recognize the two main types of library databases
Know why you should use them
Understand why searching a library database is different than searching the general internet

Databases for finding sources

Article Databases -

Use articles to find new research, specific information and evidence to support or refute a claim. You can also look at the bibliography or works cited to find additional sources. Some articles give an overview of a specific topic -- sometimes called "review articles" or "meta-analyses" or "systematic review." Databases are like mini-search engines for finding articles (e.g. Business Source Premier database searches business journals, business magazines and business newspapers). Pick a database that searches the subject of articles you want to find.

Agricultural & Environmental Science Database Search journals and literature on agriculture, pollution, animals, environment, policy, natural resources, water issues and more. Searches tools like AGRICOLA, Environmental Sciences & Pollution Management (ESPM), and Digests of Environmental Impact Statements (EIS) databases.
GreenFILE Collection of scholarly, government and general-interest titles. Multidisciplinary by nature, GreenFILE draws on the connections between the environment and agriculture, education, law, health and technology. Topics covered include global climate change, green building, pollution, sustainable agriculture, renewable energy, recycling, and more.
Ethnic NewsWatch Ethnic NewsWatch is a current resource of full-text newspapers, magazines, and journals of the ethnic and minority press from 1990, providing researchers access to essential, often overlooked perspectives.
Opposing Viewpoints in Context Find articles on current issues, including viewpoint articles, topic overviews, statistics, primary documents, magazine and newspaper articles.

Sample of online books

Below are a selection of online books and readings on the broad topic. We have more online books, journal articles, and sources in our Libraries Search and article databases.

A climate policy revolution : what the science of complexity reveals about saving our planet by Roland Kupers ISBN: 9780674246812 Publication Date: 2020 "In this book, Roland Kupers argues that the climate crisis is well suited to the bottom-up, rapid, and revolutionary change complexity science theorizes; he succinctly makes the case that complexity science promises policy solutions to address climate change."

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128 Environmental Sustainability Essay Topic Ideas & Examples

Inside This Article

Environmental sustainability is a topic that is becoming increasingly important in today's world. As the effects of climate change become more evident, it is crucial that we prioritize sustainability in order to protect our planet for future generations. If you are looking for inspiration for an essay on environmental sustainability, we have compiled a list of 128 topic ideas and examples to help get you started.

The importance of reducing carbon emissions in order to combat climate change
The role of sustainable agriculture in preserving natural resources
The impact of deforestation on biodiversity and climate change
The benefits of renewable energy sources such as solar and wind power
The importance of reducing plastic pollution in our oceans
The role of sustainable transportation in reducing greenhouse gas emissions
The impact of overfishing on marine ecosystems
The benefits of organic farming for the environment and human health
The importance of protecting endangered species from extinction
The role of sustainable urban planning in creating livable cities
The impact of air pollution on human health and the environment
The benefits of recycling and waste reduction in reducing landfill waste
The importance of protecting natural habitats and ecosystems
The impact of climate change on global food security
The benefits of green building practices for reducing energy consumption
The role of government policies in promoting environmental sustainability
The impact of water pollution on aquatic ecosystems and human health
The benefits of using sustainable materials in construction and manufacturing
The importance of promoting sustainable tourism to protect natural landscapes
The role of consumer behavior in promoting sustainability
The impact of industrial pollution on air and water quality
The benefits of using composting and organic waste management practices
The importance of protecting indigenous lands and cultures from environmental degradation
The role of education in promoting environmental awareness and sustainability
The impact of climate change on natural disasters such as hurricanes and wildfires
The benefits of using green technology to reduce energy consumption
The importance of biodiversity conservation in maintaining healthy ecosystems
The role of international cooperation in addressing global environmental challenges
The impact of deforestation on indigenous communities and traditional ways of life
The benefits of using sustainable fashion practices in reducing waste and pollution
The importance of reducing food waste in order to conserve natural resources
The role of sustainable water management in addressing water scarcity
The impact of urbanization on natural landscapes and wildlife habitats
The benefits of using renewable energy sources in developing countries
The importance of promoting eco-friendly transportation options such as biking and public transit
The role of corporate social responsibility in promoting environmental sustainability
The impact of climate change on vulnerable populations such as low-income communities and people of color
The benefits of using green energy sources in reducing reliance on fossil fuels
The importance of protecting marine ecosystems from pollution and overfishing
The role of community-based conservation projects in preserving natural resources
The impact of industrial agriculture on soil degradation and water pollution
The benefits of using sustainable forestry practices in preserving forests
The importance of promoting renewable energy policies at the local, state, and national levels
The role of sustainable fisheries management in ensuring long-term food security
The impact of climate change on agricultural productivity and food prices
The benefits of using green infrastructure to reduce urban heat islands and flooding
The importance of promoting environmental justice for marginalized communities
The role of sustainable energy policies in reducing carbon emissions
The impact of plastic pollution on marine wildlife and ecosystems
The benefits of using regenerative agriculture practices to restore degraded land
The importance of protecting biodiversity hotspots from habitat destruction
The role of sustainable transportation options in reducing traffic congestion and air pollution
The impact of climate change on global water resources and availability
The benefits of using green building materials in construction projects
The importance of promoting sustainable consumption habits in order to reduce waste
The role of renewable energy sources in reducing our dependence on fossil fuels
The impact of overconsumption and materialism on the environment
The benefits of using sustainable packaging materials in reducing plastic waste
The importance of promoting energy efficiency in homes and buildings
The role of sustainable agriculture practices in reducing water usage and soil erosion
The impact of climate change on wildlife migration patterns and habitats
The benefits of using sustainable farming practices in preserving soil fertility
The importance of protecting natural wetlands from development and pollution
The role of sustainable forestry management in maintaining healthy forests
The impact of climate change on global biodiversity and species extinction
The benefits of using green transportation options in reducing carbon emissions
The importance of promoting sustainable tourism

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119 Environmental Sustainability Essay Topic Ideas & Examples

🏆 best environmental sustainability topic ideas & essay examples, 👍 good essay topics on environmental sustainability, ✅ interesting topics to write about environmental sustainability, 📌 simple & easy environmental sustainability essay titles, ❓ environmental sustainability questions.

Green Buildings and Environmental Sustainability This paper scrutinizes the characteristics that need to be possessed by a building for it to qualify as green coupled with questioning the capacity of the green movements across the globe to prescribe the construction […]
The Environmental Sustainability Concept in the Hospitality Industry Environmental sustainability refers to the responsible management of natural resources in order to preserve the lives of human beings and other organisms in the ecosystem. We will write a custom essay specifically for you by our professional experts 808 writers online Learn More
The Nestle Company’s Environmental Sustainability Efforts What I like about Nestle’s environmental sustainability efforts: Nestle’s environmental sustainability efforts are concise and clear towards the company’s sustainability plans, that is, clear goals and objectives which are time bound. The company’s sustainability efforts […]
Capitalism Versus Environmental Sustainability Free market refers to a market where prices are derived through competition among the individual businesses and not under the regulation of the government.
Environmental Sustainability Audit: The Oman Environmental Services Holding Company The government used to handle the task of waste management in the Sultanate but with the establishment and legalization of Be’ah, the task of such is delegated to the said company.
Greenwashing: Full Environmental Sustainability? For companies, to be 100% sustainable and ethical would mean that each time they are presented with a decision, they would make people or nature their priority.
Sustainability in Canada and the Impact of Coca-Cola Company on Environmental Protection This paper is an in-depth analysis of sustainability in Canada and the impact of the Coca-Cola Company on environmental protection. In addition to this, the Canadian government has established the Canadian Environmental Sustainability Indicators, which […]
Environmental Sustainability in the Construction Sector This paper aims at exploring the evidence of climate change in the UK, the contributing factors, and the potential consequences of it, including the floods.
Environmental Sustainability on a Global Scale Compared to the world at the beginning of the 21st century, it required perceptional changes toward nature, biodiversity, and ecosystems, as well as reforms in agriculture and management of water, energy, and waste.
Risk Factor Analysis and Environmental Sustainability This project was evaluated using a methodical process that included listing ten potential dangers, followed by a risk assessment matrix and an explanation of how the dangers would be managed.
Sustainability and Environmentally-Friendly Practices The crucial ideas are that the term “tree justice” is far from “yes, we can” in terms of effective political rhetoric, but it is a reference to research showing that more canopies can save lives.
Coates Chemicals: Environmental, Sustainability, and Safety Improving the safety of chemical production, use, and disposal is a critical component of activities to safeguard human health and the environment.
Attaining Sustainability in the Environment In fact, the treatment of waste is among the first aspects that need to change for a sustainable future to be possible. Therefore, in a sustainable future, the use of plastic will be reduced to […]
Achieving Environmental Sustainability Consequently, it causes a tremendous decline in the number of trees available globally, and the trees are viewed to be of significance towards the reduction of the amount of carbon dioxide available in the atmosphere.
Climate Change: Sustainability Development and Environmental Law The media significantly contributes to the creation of awareness, thus the importance of integrating the role of the news press with sustainability practices.
Mega-Events and Environmental Sustainability Carbon emissions and the amount of waste produced during the preparation, execution, and post-operation of such events have the potential to cause great damage to the environment.
Cruise Liners’ Environmental Management and Sustainability According to GAO, the number of vessels and the number of passengers docking at a port at one time definitely may have a strain on the marine environment. Growth of algae in the marine environment […]
Customer-oriented Environmental Sustainability Customer-oriented environmental sustainability would also help evaluate the environmental impacts of activities, products as well as processes on the environment and human health.
Environmental Sustainability of Veja First of all, this organization strives to gain the loyalty of ethical consumers who are concerned about the practices of manufacturers.
The Role of Food for Sustainability in the Built Environment Sustainability refers to a movement that attempts to meet the needs of the present generation without compromising the capability of the subsequent generations to meet the needs of the future.
Environmental Sustainability and Businesses The Amazon rainforests, which are also called the “lungs of the planet,” produce 20% of the oxygen in the Earth’s atmosphere.
Environmental Sustainability in Different Countries: U.S. and AUS The AUS has many programs that help greatly in reducing the amount of water consumed within the campus. Egypt also has taken part greatly in the conservation of water for agricultural activities.
Global Warming Issues Review and Environmental Sustainability Whether it is the melt down of Arctic ice, the damage of the Ozone layer, extra pollution in developing countries; all sums up to one thing in common and that is global warming.
Green Meetings: Environmental Impact and Sustainability The author argues that Green meetings can have positive environmental impact by engaging in certain practices from the beginning to the end of the Green meetings and events.
China’s Economy and Environmental Sustainability The critical problem that the authors are attempting to address in the article is the effect of economic growth on pollution.
Sustainability: Future Environments and Economies The authors suggest that the role of sustainability management in organizations and its contribution to the overall sustainability of society and the environment is well-recognized by the researchers.
Environmental Globalization and Sustainability Laws Politicizing the environment is a term used to mean the collaboration of micro and macro players in an economy, with the support of governments and international bodies to conserve the environment.
Ceres Organization’s Environmental Sustainability The environment should be managed for the equal benefits of the current and future generations. The local communities should take the initiative to rehabilitate the environment.
Environmental Sustainability Understanding In May 2001 126 countries and the EU agreed and adopted the text of this global treaty, referred to as the Stockholm Convention on Persistent Organic Pollutants How can you prevent water pollution?
Environmental Geology and Sustainability Taking soil as an example, one will have to admit that the changes in the soil will necessarily pose a threat of extinction to several plants. The carbon cycle can be referred to as an […]
Personal Environmental Sustainability Action Plan Environmental degradation is the deterioration of the environment through depletion and contamination of resources such as air, water, and soil, which leads to the destruction of ecosystems and the extinction of wildlife.
Sustainability Against Environmental Degradation This is because the technological solutions are also covered by sustainability and form part of the other things that ought to be handled by sustainability above the technical fixes.
Strategic Environmental Sustainability It is apparent that the world has focused on targeting big companies and industries in the quest to reduce the emission of greenhouse gases and the pollution of the environment.
China’s Emissions and Environmental Sustainability As the largest consumer of natural resources and emitter of greenhouse gasses, China is expected to implement innovations in the environmental field to ensure its own sustainable development.
Information Technology and Environment Sustainability The aim of this research paper is to analyze the available literature in order to obtain the information on the possible effects of IT on environmental sustainability and corporate social responsibility, determine its validity, locate […]
Sustainability and Human Impact on Environment Sustainability entails the analysis of ecosystem functioning, diversity, and role in the balance of life. It is the consideration of how humanity can exploit the natural world for sustenance without affecting its ability to meet […]
International Environment Management and Sustainability The campaign to save the environment has grown from the publicized protection of animals to a more solid response to the modern day concerns of global warming and climate change.
Environmental Sustainability in Clean City Organization Furthermore, our organization will give preference to those projects that involve the students of the school because it is important to make sure that young people attach the importance to protecting the environment of the […]
Sustainability Principles of the Natural Environment This is one of the points that can be made. This is one of the issues that can be distinguished.
Environmental Sustainability in the African American Community Sustainability is one of the complex concepts as it entails different activities that aim at achieving the wants of the current generation without violating the potential interests of the future generation to meet their needs.
Environmental Education for Sustainability There are several characteristics that can be associated with environmental education as a learning process, with the most significant being the unit’s predisposition to enhance the knowledge and responsiveness of individuals about the environment and […]
Environmental Studies: Transforming Cultures From Consumerism to Sustainability The trade fair portrayed the potential of the then and future civilizations to deploy technology, creativity, and innovation to create more consumables to boost the life of future generations.
Managing For Environmental Sustainability The website also summarises some of the projects that the company has engaged in as well as the strategic decisions that it has made.
Effectiveness of Carbon Tax in Environmental Sustainability This research will seek to achieve the following objectives: To investigate the extent to which assessing the social cost of carbon is valuable in enhancing environmental sustainability To find out the effectiveness of assessing carbon […]
“Clarke: Transformation for Environmental Sustainability” by Laszlo, McCabe, Aheam and Ghatde Dissatisfaction among the staff due to the lack of comfort in transportation; Drops in the speed of the product delivery, as well as the transportation of raw materials and, thus, the overall reduction in the […]
Managing Environmental Sustainability With reference to the above purpose, the scope of the report will be around the stakeholders as well as the reasons behind managerial consideration of stakeholders’ views, the monetary and non monetary incentives for going […]
McDonald’s: Human Rights and Environmental Sustainability Core values of the company One of the core values of the company is the respect for the fundamental rights of human beings.
Learning of Environment Sustainability in Education Humans pay much attention to satisfying their needs but they do not bother to reserve the resources because they do not understand that the resources they are using today are not replaced when they are […]
Impact of Economic Growth on Environmental Sustainability Because of constant development of the richest economies, such as the United Kingdom, and United States, the consumption levels of the global population surpass the actual amount of natural resources that the Earth has prepared […]
Wind Energy for Environmental Sustainability Production of this energy is important to the survival and enhancement of lives of people in a society. It refers to the role of that business or a corporate towards the society.
The Trends, Opportunities and Challenges of Environmental Sustainability The environmental issues on earth have extended radically in the past decades and are currently among the main threats and challenges which have impacts on people lifestyles and organizations processes around the world.
The Components of Environmental Sustainability On page 6, Sutton, is of the opinion that there is a great connection between environmental damage, industrialisation and urbanisation; he observes that human beings have altered the natural environment and resulted to living in […]
Sustainability Development: Balancing Economic, Social and Environmental Dimensions Nonetheless, the company has also been very keen on ensuring that it creates a good reputation of ecological stewardship and sensitivity to the social matters in the society in the spirit of sustainable development in […]
The Concept of Environmental Sustainability in the Hotel Industry In the quest of the players in the hospitality industry to achieve sustainability in their operations, it is important that the environmental sustainability is made part of the plans for the businesses.
Environmental Sustainability and Economic Benefits of Dairy Farm Biogas Energy Production
Social and Environmental Sustainability of Travelling Within Family Networks
Corporate Responsibility: Integrative New Approaches for Coastal and Environmental Sustainability
Economic Policy Instruments and Environmental Sustainability: Another Look at Environmental-Use Permits
Environmental Sustainability and Energy-Efficient Supply Chain Management
Accountability and Environmental Sustainability: Nigerian Maritime Experience
Agriculture, Technological Change and Environmental Sustainability: Win-Win Water Policy Strategy
Environmental Sustainability and Organic Wine Production: Evidence From Italian Industry
Anti-consumption for Environmental Sustainability: Conceptualization, Review, and Multilevel Research Directions
Asia’s Energy Adequacy, Environmental Sustainability, and Affordability: An Overview
Environmental Sustainability of Electricity Generation in Turkey on a Life Cycle Basis
Banks and Environmental Sustainability: Reflection From the Perspective of Financial Stability
Biofuel From Jatropha Curcas: Environmental Sustainability and Option Value
Environmental Sustainability and Services in Developing Global City Regions
The Link Between Business Ethics, Social Responsibility, Environmental Sustainability
Can Big Data and Predictive Analytics Improve Social and Environmental Sustainability?
Environmental Sustainability Can Only Be Achieved Through Population Control
Coinquiry for Environmental Sustainability: The UK Beacons for Public Engagement Review
Environmental Sustainability Report and Its Communicative Values to Stakeholders
Australian Government Policies Relating to Environmental Sustainability
Energy and Environmental Sustainability of Malaysian Universities Through Energy Conservation Measures
Environmentally Sustainable National Income: Indispensable Information for Attaining Environmental Sustainability
The Relationships Between Environmental Sustainability and Global Warming
Environmental Sustainability and Its Effects on the Energy Sector
The Link Between Environmental Sustainability and Social Sustainability
Exploring Acceptance Towards Environmental Sustainability of Distance Education in Malaysia
Gender Equality and Environmental Sustainability in Uganda’s Water Sector
The Relationships Between Global Economic Development and Environmental Sustainability
Global Green Economy and Environmental Sustainability
How Globalization and Environmental Sustainability Influence Strategic Management
Correlation Between Human Rights and Environmental Sustainability
India’s Economic Growth and Environmental Sustainability: What Are the Tradeoffs
Innovation and Environmental Sustainability: Analysis of the Brazilian Metal-Mechanic Industry
Integrating Environmental Sustainability Considerations Into Food and Nutrition Policies
International Linkages and Environmental Sustainability: The Effectiveness of the Regime Network
Mainstreaming Green Product Innovation: Why and How Companies Integrate Environmental Sustainability
Managing Human Resources for Environmental Sustainability
Mobile Phone Innovation and Environmental Sustainability in Sub-Saharan Africa
National Culture and Environmental Sustainability: A Cross-National Analysis
Analysis of Palm Beach Community College Environmental Sustainability
Does Environmental Sustainability Contradict Prosperity?
What Are the Factors Affecting Environmental Sustainability?
How Does Environmental Sustainability Influence Organizational Behavior?
Why Do We Need to Study Environmental Sustainability?
What Are the Main Components of Environmental Sustainability?
Does Income Inequality Affect Environmental Sustainability?
Why Is Environmental Sustainability Important to the Organization?
How Does Environmental Sustainability Affect Business?
What Are the Environmental Sustainability Issues We Need to Address?
Why Is Environmental Sustainability a Problem?
Does Intelligence Improve Environmental Sustainability?
What Causes Environmental Sustainability?
How Does Environmental Sustainability Affect Employees?
What Are the Principles of Environmental Sustainability?
Why Is Environmental Sustainability Important to the Economy?
How Can Environmental Sustainability Contribute to Economic Development?
What Will Happen if Environmental Sustainability Is Not Achieved?
Why Are Issues of Environmental Sustainability Important in Corporate Governance?
How Does Poverty Affect Environmental Sustainability?
What Are Environmental Sustainability Issues and Solutions of Sustainable Development?
Why Is Environmental Sustainability a Global Issue?
What Is the Biggest Threat to Environmental Sustainability?
Is There a Relationship Between Economic Development and Environmental Sustainability?
What Is Business Strategy for Environmental Sustainability?
Why Should We Care About Environmental Sustainability?
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Bibliometric analysis of sustainability papers: Evidence from Environment, Development and sustainability

Published: 19 March 2023
Volume 26 , pages 8183–8209, ( 2024 )

Cite this article

Nejla Ould Daoud Ellili ORCID: orcid.org/0000-0003-1032-3965 1

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This study aims to highlight the current trends in the literature on sustainability by applying a bibliometric review of papers on sustainability published in Environment, Development and Sustainability . Bibliometric analysis is a quantitative approach to bibliographic materials that highlights the core theoretical and empirical research on a specific field. In addition, it allows the classification of previous studies. Previous bibliometric reviewers were limited to sustainability papers in specific industries, while this study considers all papers on sustainability to provide further insights on overall sustainability topics. The analysis was based on keyword cartography analysis, bibliometric authors’ citation analysis, bibliometric papers’ citation analysis, bibliometric references’ co-citation analysis, journals’ co-citation cartography, and qualitative content analysis. A total of 997 articles on sustainability were reviewed. Bibliometric analysis was performed using VOSviewer and content analysis was performed using WordStat. Six major clusters were identified: environmental sustainability, sustainable development, urban sustainability, ecological footprint, environment, and climate change. In addition, the results reveal that Environment, Development and Sustainability has increasingly experienced important growth in research papers and citations, reflecting its significant contribution to the sustainability research field. In addition, this study presents recommendations for future research opportunities in the field of sustainability. The findings of this study have implications for sustainability research, such as the assessment of environmental and social sustainability in multinational institutional contexts and across industries as well as the examination of the impact of environmental and social sustainability on different corporate aspects and decisions. This study is the only one to review the key topics on which papers published in Environment, Development and Sustainability are focused and can be largely used for sustainability practices. This study provides an overview of how the literature on sustainability has developed, as well as a summary of the most productive authors, along with countries, organizations, and journal sources. This offers an opportunity for future research to focus on this topic.

Three pillars of sustainability: in search of conceptual origins

Ben Purvis, Yong Mao & Darren Robinson

Criteria for Good Qualitative Research: A Comprehensive Review

Drishti Yadav

Impact of tourism development upon environmental sustainability: a suggested framework for sustainable ecotourism

Qadar Bakhsh Baloch, Syed Naseeb Shah, … Asia Umar Khan

Avoid common mistakes on your manuscript.

1 Introduction

Over the past decade, bibliometric analyses have attracted increasing research attention. This analysis has become popular owing to the introduction of new software programs, multidisciplinary methodologies, and the ability to handle large databases (Khan et al., 2022 ). Additionally, this analysis allows objective data analysis and identification of various trends in a specific research field and journal performance, topics, authorship, co-citations, and references (Ellili, 2023 ). This study focuses on sustainability, which is of great interest.

This study focused on the sustainability research field, as its importance has emerged due to the growth in awareness of natural resource depletion and environmental changes. Sustainability has become an area of great interest not only for policymakers, but also for researchers to examine the concept of a green economy. In the last decade, the increasing environmental awareness of international legal bodies has prompted many countries to raise questions about sustainable development.

Most of studies explored the sustainability in the agriculture industry (Fito & van Hulle, 2021 ; Medina et al., 2021 ; Pandey & Diwan, 2021 ; Singh & Misra, 2021 ; Yasmeen et al., 2022 ), food security (Alsaleh et al., 2021 ; Nualnoom, 2022 ; Pieroni et al., 2021 ; P. Singh et al., 2022 ), land management and degradation (Surata et al., 2022 ; Yu, 2021; Zhou et al., 2022 ), biodiversity (Teraa & Bencherif, 2022 ), climate change (Staupe-Delgado, 2020 ; Wang et al., 2021 ), urban planning and management (Ahmed et al., 2021 ; Sunardi et al., 2021 ; Yu et al., 2021 ), and carbon emission and pollution (Kapitonov, 2021 ; Kaya Kanlı & Küçükefe, 2023 ; Sun et al., 2022 ).

In the management area, studies have examined the circular economy (di Vaio et al., 2023 ; Mirzaei & Shokouhyar, 2022 ; Rasool et al., 2022 ), life cycle analysis (Hayek et al., 2021 ; Khaddour, 2022 ; Sharma et al., 2022 ) while only one study investigated the impact of sustainability disclosure on corporate performance (Ellili & Nobanee, 2022 ). Through a bibliometric analysis, this study was not only able to identify the most frequent sustainability topics published in Environment, Development and Sustainability , but also detect various gaps in the literature and propose paths for future research.

This study aims to achieve the following objectives: (1) analyze the major contributions of Environment, Development and Sustainability to the sustainability research field; (2) identify the most productive authors along with their respective papers, organizations, and countries; (3) determine the key reference papers and journals; (4) map and visualize results in simple presentations; and (5) provide directions for future sustainability research to be considered by the journal.

This study had five research questions: The first question is as follows: What are the most frequent topics of papers published in Environment, Development and Sustainability ? The second question is: What authors, organizations, and countries have contributed the most to research on sustainability? The third research question was as follows: What are the most cited papers published in Environment, Development and Sustainability ? The fourth research question is as follows: What are the most cited reference papers? The fifth research question was as follows: What are the most-cited reference journals? To answer the first and fifth questions, we conducted a cartography analysis using VOSviewer, and the remaining questions were answered by applying bibliometric analyses.

To the best of our knowledge, there are 13 bibliometric analyses published in Environment, Development and Sustainability . These studies are related to sustainability issues in specific industries, such as economics (Dominko et al., 2022 ; Zhao & Zhang, 2022 ; Zárate-Rueda et al., 2021 ), tourism (Diéguez-Castrillón et al., 2022 ), real estate (Lazar & Chithra, 2021 ), agriculture (Dash et al., 2023 ; Mohd Razali et al., 2022 ), and health (Zyoud & Zyoud, 2021 ). While this study considers all sustainability papers published in Environment, Development and Sustainability and it will shed further light on this topic. This study contributes to the literature by evaluating the most relevant sustainability research topics. Six major clusters were identified: (1) environmental sustainability, (2) sustainable development, (3) urban sustainability, (4) ecological footprint, (5) environment, and (6) climate change. In addition, the results reveal that Environment, Development and Sustainability has increasingly experienced important growth in research papers and citations, reflecting its significant contribution to the sustainability research field. In addition, this study identifies the authors, countries, organizations, and references that have been the most influential in terms of publishing sustainability studies in Environment, Development and Sustainability .

The remainder of this paper is organized as follows. Section 2 presents the methodology and data. Section 3 interprets the results of the bibliometric and content analyses. Section 4 presents the current topics and recommendations for future research, and Sect. 5 presents the conclusions.

2 Methodology and data

2.1 methodology.

This study applied a bibliometric analysis by considering both quantitative and qualitative approaches (Khan et al., 2022 ). Thus, the following analyses were conducted: (1) keyword cartography analysis, (2) bibliometric authors’ citation analysis, (3) bibliometric papers’ co-citation analysis, (4) bibliometric references’ co-citation analysis, (5) journals’ co-citation cartography, and (5) qualitative content analysis. Bibliometric analysis was conducted using VOSviewer and content analysis was performed using WordStat.

In the first step, the Scopus database was selected as Environment, Development and Sustainability is listed in this database. More particularly, we used the keyword “sustainability” and the title source Environment, Development and Sustainability yielding 1,042 papers. The data include all documents on sustainability published in Environment, Development and Sustainability. It covers the period between 1999 and 2022 until August 9th. The data were then screened in multiple stages, as shown in Fig. 1 . The final number of papers included in this bibliometric analysis was 997.

PRISMA diagram showing the number of documents at each stage of the screening process

After the data were screened, they were exported to Common Separated Value (CSV) Excel and uploaded to VOSviewer for bibliometric analyses. In addition, the CSV Excel was converted into the Web of Sciences format and uploaded to CiteSpace. The data extraction and conversion steps are illustrated in Fig. 2 .

Data extraction steps

3 Results of bibliometric and content analyses

This section summarizes the 997 documents included in this study. These documents were published in Environment, Development, and Sustainability . In addition to the trend analysis, several bibliometric analyses were conducted to identify the most frequent research topics, the most productive authors along with organizations and countries, the most cited papers, the most co-cited reference papers, the most co-cited reference journals, and content analysis.

3.1 Trend in publications on sustainability in Environment, Development and sustainability

Figure 3 shows the number of documents published on sustainability in Environment, Development and Sustainability . The four first studies were published in 1999. The development of this field was slow until 2007, with a maximum of 15 papers published in 2005. The number of published documents on sustainability started to increase, reaching 40 in 2018 and 2019 and continued to increase significantly in the remaining years, reaching 255 in 2021. Although the year 2022 is not yet over, this number has reached 224. The growing number of published documents suggests that academic researchers are becoming more interested in the sustainability field and publishing a higher number of documents in Environment, Development and Sustainability . In this trend analysis, the increasing number of publications in the field of sustainability is not only attributed to the growing recognition of the importance of this research field, but also to the significant contribution of Environment, Development and Sustainability to the publication on sustainability.

Trend in publication on sustainability in Environment, Development and Sustainability

3.2 The most frequent research topics

Co-occurrence analysis of all keywords was applied to conceptualize the development and growth of sustainability studies published in Environment, Development and Sustainability . To arrive at a meaningful analysis, following Khan et al. ( 2022 ), a minimum threshold of two for the co-occurrence of a particular keyword was required and filtered. This resulted in 551 words, for a total of 3,577 words. The results are reported in Fig. 3 and reveal six major clusters: (1) environmental sustainability (red), (2) sustainable development (green), (3) urban sustainability (blue), (4) ecological footprint (yellow), (5) environment (purple), and (6) climate change (turquoise). These clusters reflect the need for research on sustainability in response to the main interest in the environment and climate change. In addition, the topic of sustainability is of great importance to help companies ensure sustainable development and growth, as well as to improve stakeholders’ perceptions and public attitudes (Fig. 4 ).

Keywords analysis

Studies in the environmental sustainability cluster have primarily focused on sustainability indicators. There were three major groups of studies in this cluster. The first group examined the implementation of sustainable development goals (SDG) (Weerasooriya et al., 2021 ; Phillips, 2021 ; Udemba, 2022 ), and environmental conservation policies (Z. Wang et al., 2022 ; Zolin et al., 2020 ). The second group explored the adoption of a circular economy (di Vaio et al., 2023 ; Mirzaei & Shokouhyar, 2022 ; Rasool et al., 2022 ), environmental innovations (Tiwari & Thakur, 2021 ; Weimin et al., 2022 ). The third group assesses corporate sustainability (de Lima et al., 2022 ; Ellili & Nobanee, 2022 ; Rahman et al., 2022 ; Xu et al., 2021 ).

In the sustainable development cluster, studies have explored sustainability in the agricultural industry(Fito & van Hulle, 2021 ; Medina et al., 2021 ; Pandey & Diwan, 2021 ; Singh & Misra, 2021 ; Yasmeen et al., 2022 ) as well as in tourism (Aygün Oğur & Baycan, 2022 ; Mohamadi et al., 2022 ; Xu et al., 2022 ). Other studies have focused on land use management (Surata et al., 2022 ; Yu, 2021 ; Zhou et al., 2022 ), energy consumption (Petrović, 2023 ; Saeed et al., 2022 ), economic growth (Refah-Kahriz et al., 2022 ), and the impact of COVID-19 pandemic on sustainable development (Bar, 2021 ; Shammi et al., 2021 ; Zyoud, 2022 ).

In urban sustainability clusters, studies have focused mainly on urban planning and management (Ahmed et al., 2021 ; Sunardi et al., 2021 ; Yu et al., 2021 J. Wang et al., 2022 ) and water quality, resources, and management (Torres López et al., 2023 ; Wang et al., 2021 ).

In the ecological print cluster, studies have focused on food security (Alsaleh et al., 2021 ; Nualnoom, 2022 ; Pieroni et al., 2021 ; P. Singh et al., 2022 ), the application of geographic information systems (GIS) to assess climatic conditions (Bherwani et al., 2021 ; Dereli & Tercan, 2021 ; Sarif & Gupta, 2022 ), and stakeholder involvement in ecological initiatives (Salman et al., 2022 ; Vasconcelos et al., 2022 ; Woldesenbet & Kebede, 2021 ).

In the environmental cluster, studies have highlighted the need to reduce carbon emissions (Coller et al., 2021 ; Khurshid et al., 2022 ), use renewable energy to improve energy efficiency (Irfan et al., 2021 ; Xu et al., 2021 ), biodiversity (Teraa & Bencherif, 2022 ), and the importance of preserving the environment for poor communities (Forkuor & Korah, 2023 ; Ho et al., 2022 ).

Studies in the climate change cluster have focused mainly on adaptation strategies and livelihoods (De & Das, 2021 ; Ghazali et al., 2021 ; Islam et al., 2022 ), and resilience evaluation (Ghamari et al., 2022 ; Rai et al., 2021 ; Zhao et al., 2022 ).

In addition to VOSviewer, CiteSpace was used to analyze the most used keywords in the different stages and development patterns in the publications on sustainability in Environment, Development and Sustainability . The most-cited keywords were calculated and arranged in CiteSpace by time and frequency to form the time view shown in Fig. 5 . The figure shows the most frequently used keywords. The four keywords of “sustainable development,” “climate change,” “ecological footprint,” “biodiversity,” and “environment” were frequently included in papers till 2004, suggesting that early interest in sustainability was closely related to the overall awareness about the environment as well as the integration of the environmental policy for the achievement of a sustainable development. For instance, Eppel ( 1999 ) explained the recommendations of the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) Council for different countries to integrate areas of the environment and climate change into governmental strategies to ensure the transition to sustainable development. In the following three years, the following new keywords emerged: “water management” and “economic growth”. These keywords reflect the importance of water resource management for ensuring economic growth. Rahm et al. ( 2006 ) highlighted the importance of sustainability of water resources to ensure economic development. During 2007–2013, the most used keywords were “perception”, “livelihood”, “integrated approach“, “strategic approach“, “ecotourism“, and “carbon emission”. In addition, interest in sustainability research was not only limited to “rural areas” but was extended to “urban areas. These keywords reflect that the achievement of sustainability objectives requires integrated and strategic approaches to increasing awareness among different stakeholders about sustainability and making them involved in different environmental initiatives. During 2013–2016, researchers were interested in applying more sophisticated methods such as “irrigation system” and “spatiotemporal analysis” to assess the quality of different sustainability practices. The interest was focused on assessing the sustainability performance and the achievement of “sustainable development goals” including the “social sustainability” in different industries such as “supply chain” companies. In the following years, interest continued to be on “sustainability assessment” and moved to the “optimization” of sustainability goals. This evolution in sustainability topics indicates that researchers have started to increase awareness about the environment and climate change by explaining the importance of sustainability efforts to be implemented at the country level and the strong association between sustainability practices and economic growth. Later, interest was focused on spreading awareness about sustainability initiatives in both rural and urban areas, measuring the different potential impacts of sustainability efforts, and optimizing the achievement of different sustainability goals.

Evolution in Sustainability Research topics Over the Years

Additionally, a keyword burst analysis was conducted to identify the emergence of new and significant research topics in the sustainability field over time and track the evolution of ideas over time. Figure 6 presents the top 22 keywords with the strongest citation bursts between 1999 and 2022. The top five keywords with the highest strength were “Eurasia” (2004–2009), “Asia” (2004–2009), “Africa” (2002–2009), “perception” (2016–2020), and “developing word” (2009–2014). The most recent burst keywords were “strategic approach”, “groundwater resources”, “assessment method”, and “Pakistan” with continuous persistence. The keyword “strategic approach” which emerged from 2018, showed the strongest citation burst (4.82).

The keywords with the strongest citation bursts for publications on sustainability published in Environment, Development and Sustainability between 1999 and 2022

3.3 The most influential authors, organizations and countries

The most cited authors, along with their respective organizations and countries, are presented in Table 1 . For meaningful analysis, the threshold was a minimum of five papers by author. This yielded eight of the 2,961 authors. Table 1 shows that Hens L. published the highest number of papers in Environment, Development and Sustainability and Islam A.R.M.T. had the highest number of citations. The list indicates that two authors are affiliated with Iranian universities (Bagherpour M and Ghannadpour S.F.). In addition, Table 1 reveals that Belgium, Hong Kong, Sweden, India, Bangladesh, Benin, and Iran are increasingly contributing to research publications in Environment, Development, and Sustainability .

3.4 The most cited papers

This section presents an analysis of the most-cited papers published in Environment, Development and Sustainability. The threshold was a minimum of 100 citations, yielding 16 of the 997 papers. As presented in Table 2 , the topics of the most cited papers are related to environmental sustainability (Munda, 2005 ; Van Wilgen et al., 2001 ; Shiferaw et al., 2009 ; Chavalparit et al., 2006 ; López-ridaura et al., 2005 ; Magee et al. 2013 ) followed by studies on sustainable development (Jabareen, 2008 ; Fuchs, 2008 ; Yüksel, 2017 ) and urban sustainability (Berardi, 2013 ; Koop & van Leeuwen, 2017 ; Cetin et al., 2018 ).

3.5 Most co-cited reference papers

This section presents the top 20 co-cited references in sustainability papers published in Environment, Development and Sustainability . As shown in Table 3 , most co-cited reference papers were directly related to environmental sustainability. Other co-cited references are related to theories such as organizational behavior considered in the studies of Gholamrezai et al. ( 2021 ), Hameed et al. ( 2021 ), and Hopwood et al. ( 2022 ) or empirical models including fuzzy, structural equations, bounds testing approaches, and linear models that have been applied in many studies to assess environmental sustainability. In particularl, the fuzzy model was considered in the studies of Garg et al. ( 2022 ), Goyal et al. ( 2021 ), Guo & Wu ( 2022 ), and Perçin ( 2022 ).The structural equations were considered in the studies of Sachin & Rajesh ( 2022 ) and Sekhar & Raina ( 2021 ).The bounds testing approaches were considered in the studies of Udemba ( 2022 ) and Danlami et al. ( 2018 ), and the linear models were applied in the studies of Sameen & Feroze ( 2021 ) and Bissinger & Bogner ( 2018 ).

3.6 Most cited references journals

This section presents the most-cited reference sources. Table 4 presents the top ten journals, along with their respective citations, publishers, Scopus quartiles, and SNIP factors. All journals are part of Q1 Scopus and have high SNIP impact factors (higher than 1.154). Most journals were published by Elsevier followed by Springer.

3.7 Content analysis

In addition to bibliometric analysis, qualitative content analysis of the research topics of papers on sustainability published in Environment, Development and Sustainability was conducted using WordStat. The results are presented in Table 5 .

Table 5 reveals a high similarity with the bibliometric analysis and clusters explained in Sect. 3.2. This indicates that the most frequent research topics on sustainability are related to environmental sustainability, sustainable development, water quality, carbon emissions, and climate change. The two additional topics are “decision making” and “structured interviews”. These topics are related to methodological approaches and data collection. Table 5 indicates that fuzzy and integrated approaches are the most common methods applied in sustainability studies. Fuzzy models are used to assess different sustainability impacts (Goyal et al., 2021 ; Yamagishi et al., 2021 ; Liang et al., 2021 ). Regarding data collection, the most commonly used methods for assessing the awareness and perception of sustainability are questionnaires, surveys, and interviews (Dipeolu et al., 2021 ; Gurbuz et al., 2021 ).

4 Current topics and recommendations for future research

In addition to the content analysis of previous sustainability papers, another content analysis was conducted on the current topics of the most recent papers, published until August 9, 2022. Table 6 presents the results.

Table 6 indicates that the major topics of environmental sustainability and sustainable development are similar to those listed in Table 5 . For each topic, there is a new integration, such as the social aspect in the topic of environmental sustainability (Ellili & Nobanee, 2022 ; Sachin & Rajesh, 2022 ) and tourism sustainability in the topic of sustainable development (Aygün Oğur & Baycan, 2022 ; Simo-Kengne, 2022 ; Xu et al., 2022 ). In the methodology approach, there is a higher focus on data analysis using data envelopment (Omrani et al., 2022 ; Ye et al., 2022 ), panel data (Petrović, 2023 ), and sensitivity analysis (Yagmahan & Yılmaz, 2023 ) to assess the different sustainability impacts. In addition, the production of renewable energy is one of the main new topics in recent sustainability studies published in Environment, Development and Sustainability (Adetunji et al., 2022 ).

As per the keyword burst analysis (Fig. 6 ), future research on sustainability may include topics on the “strategic approach”, “groundwater resources”, “assessment method”, and “Pakistan”. Future research on strategic approaches may include studies on ecosystem-based management to further understand the management of natural resources by considering the entire ecosystem, including its ecological, social, and economic aspects. Future studies on groundwater resources may include the development of policies and regulations involving the implementation of measures such as groundwater allocation limits and recharge requirements to ensure that groundwater resources are used sustainably and not overexploited. Future research on assessment methods may consider digital platforms for sustainability data collection and analysis. These platforms can help improve the quality and availability of sustainability data and promote data-driven decision making. Future studies on sustainability in Pakistan may include further promotion of the development of renewable energy sources to increase access to clean and affordable energy, investment in green infrastructure, and the resilience of sustainable agriculture to climate change.

In addition, other topics on sustainability that would be considered by Environment, Development and Sustainability may include the following:

Environmental and social sustainability assessment across industries: Ellili & Nobanee ( 2022 ) examined the impact of UAE banks’ environmental and social disclosure on financial performance. Sachin & Rajesh ( 2022 ) analyzed the association between sustainable supply chain practices and the financial performance of Indian manufacturing companies. Aygün Oğur & Baycan ( 2022 ), Mohamadi et al. ( 2022 ), and Simo-Kengne ( 2022 ) examined sustainability practices in the tourism industry, while Xu et al. ( 2022 ) compared corporate sustainable growth between the tourism and agriculture industries. It would be interesting to explore sustainability efforts in various industries. This would help determine the best frameworks and practices for sustainability initiatives to maximize financial performance.

Environmental and social sustainability assessment in family businesses and small and medium enterprises (SMEs): Family businesses and SMEs contribute significantly to economic growth, while most sustainability studies focus on listed companies. It would be interesting to explore the sustainability practices implemented by family businesses and SMEs and examine their potential impact on financial performance and sustainable development.

Environmental and social sustainability assessment in international contexts: Most sustainability studies focus on only one country. However, it would be insightful to conduct multinational studies to compare sustainability efforts in different institutional contexts (such as developing versus developed countries) and benchmark best sustainability practices.

Impact of social and environmental sustainability on corporate decisions: Most previous studies have examined the impact of sustainability practices on financial performance (Ellili & Nobanee, 2022 ; Sachin & Rajesh, 2022 ). It would also be worth analyzing the impact of these practices on other corporate aspects (such as investment efficiency, earnings management, forecast accuracy, etc.) and financial decisions (capital structure, dividend policy, cash holdings, etc.).

More comprehensive sustainability assessment measures: Most previous studies have used either qualitative (such as surveys, questionnaires, and focus groups) or quantitative measures (such as scores, panel data, DEA, and sensitivity analysis) for sustainability assessment. It would be insightful if future research combines qualitative and quantitative methods to develop a more complex and accurate sustainability assessment index.

Energy production: Most previous studies have explored different types of renewable energy for the main environmental purposes of reducing carbon emissions and climate change. It would also be interesting to consider the impact of renewable energy production on social sustainability such as employment opportunities, quality of life, healthy lifestyles, and income growth.

5 Conclusion

This study analyzed published papers in Environment, Development and Sustainability to determine the journal’s contributions to the sustainability literature, identify the key ideas and concepts related to this field, and provide recommendations for future research.

By applying several bibliometric and content analyses, the most productive authors, along with their respective organizations and countries, were identified. In addition, this study identified six major research topics related to (1) environmental sustainability, (2) sustainable development, (3) urban sustainability, (4) ecological footprint, (5) environment, and (6) climate change.

This study has theoretical and practical implications. First, it provides an overview of the evolution of the sustainability literature in journals and identifies the most relevant topics. Second, it helps researchers understand the most recent topics, as well as the most cited papers and relevant references on sustainability. Third, sustainability researchers can use the findings of this study to identify the areas of future research opportunities on which they should focus. For instance, they can analyze various issues related to sustainability to ensure sustainable development. In addition, it has been observed that there is a gap in the literature regarding the assessment of social and environmental sustainability in family businesses and SMEs which is considered as an unexplored research field related to the corporate sustainability practices. In addition, most of the previous studies published in Environment, Development and Sustainability explored only the impact of environmental and social sustainability on financial performance, while the economic environment changes over time, and it is important for researchers to constantly evolve their studies to improve the understanding of the major role played by environmental and social practices in enhancing economic growth and sustainable development. Moreover, the main thrust of environmental and social sustainability studies has examined either one institutional context or one industry, and has relied on a limited number of companies, while it can also be applied in a multinational context and across different industries.

This study also highlights the importance of optimizing sustainability management in addressing critical corporate decisions, such as investment decisions, capital structure, dividend payouts, and earnings management. This field has been acknowledged as a leading research topic for exploring the various characteristics of sustainability practices. Much research should be conducted in this field as most studies have focused on financial performance. In addition, more studies should be conducted on the impact of sustainability on strategic corporate governance to ensure sustainable development. Some of these topics include the role of the board of directors in the integration of sustainability into a company’s management.

The importance of sustainability is acknowledged not only by society, but also by investors. Companies should operate in a way that will not only maximize the value of their shareholders’ wealth but also increase the benefit to the entire society by undertaking environmental and social activities, such as investment in renewable energy projects. This will be of great interest for future research, considering the internal policies of companies to promote sustainable development goals and prevent climate change, pollution, and social inequality.

Future studies should examine other databases to analyze trends in the field of sustainability. This study focused only on articles published in Environment, Development and Sustainability . Despite these limitations, this study provides a useful overview of the current sustainability literature.

Data availability

The data that support the findings of this study are available upon request.

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Environmental Law Research Paper Topics

This page presents a comprehensive collection of environmental law research paper topics , tailored for students studying law and interested in exploring the complexities of environmental issues. Environmental law is a vital field that addresses the legal aspects of protecting the environment, ensuring sustainable practices, and regulating human activities that impact the planet. From climate change and biodiversity conservation to environmental policies and international treaties, students will find a wealth of thought-provoking topics to delve into. Whether you are passionate about environmental advocacy or seeking to understand the legal implications of environmental challenges, this page is a valuable resource to expand your knowledge and refine your research skills.

100 Environmental Law Research Paper Topics

Environmental law encompasses a wide array of legal issues related to the protection and preservation of our planet’s natural resources and ecosystems. This comprehensive list of environmental law research paper topics is designed to inspire students and researchers alike to explore the intricate and ever-evolving landscape of environmental law. The topics are organized into ten distinct categories, each focusing on different aspects of environmental law and its significance in shaping environmental policies and practices.

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Environmental Policy and Regulation

Evaluating the effectiveness of environmental policies in achieving sustainability goals.
Analyzing the role of government regulations in addressing environmental challenges.
The impact of international environmental agreements on global conservation efforts.
Legal frameworks for addressing climate change and promoting renewable energy.
The role of public participation in shaping environmental policies and decision-making.
The legal implications of environmental impact assessments in policy formulation.
Balancing economic interests and environmental protection in policy development.
The role of judicial review in upholding or challenging environmental policies.
Analyzing the effectiveness of market-based approaches in environmental regulation.
The impact of political ideologies on environmental policy formulation.

Biodiversity and Wildlife Protection

The legal implications of conserving endangered species and habitats.
Analyzing the role of wildlife protection laws in combating illegal trafficking and poaching.
Legal challenges in balancing human development with wildlife conservation.
The impact of habitat destruction on biodiversity and legal measures for preservation.
The role of international treaties in promoting cross-border wildlife protection.
The legal aspects of wildlife rehabilitation and reintroduction programs.
Analyzing the effectiveness of protected areas in biodiversity conservation.
Legal challenges in addressing invasive species and their impact on ecosystems.
The role of private landowners in wildlife conservation efforts.
The intersection of indigenous rights and wildlife protection.

Pollution Control and Remediation

The legal framework for regulating air and water pollution.
Analyzing liability and compensation mechanisms for environmental damages.
Legal challenges in hazardous waste management and cleanup.
The role of environmental impact assessments in pollution prevention.
The legal implications of emerging contaminants and their regulation.
Analyzing the effectiveness of pollution trading and offset programs.
Legal challenges in addressing plastic pollution and marine litter.
The role of corporate environmental liability in pollution prevention.
Analyzing the impact of industrial pollution on public health and communities.
The legal aspects of noise pollution and its regulation.

Water Resource Management and Conservation

Legal considerations in managing and allocating water resources.
Analyzing the impact of water pollution on ecosystems and public health.
Legal challenges in protecting and restoring aquatic habitats.
The role of water rights and agreements in transboundary water management.
The legal implications of water scarcity and drought management.
Analyzing the effectiveness of water conservation and efficiency measures.
Legal challenges in addressing groundwater contamination and depletion.
The role of ecosystem-based approaches in water resource management.
The legal aspects of water privatization and its implications for access and equity.
The intersection of water law and indigenous water rights.

Land Use and Sustainable Development

The legal framework for sustainable land use planning and urban development.
Analyzing the impact of mining and extraction industries on the environment.
Legal challenges in regulating deforestation and promoting reforestation.
The role of property rights in promoting conservation and sustainable land practices.
The legal implications of land use conflicts and dispute resolution.
Analyzing the effectiveness of land conservation easements in sustainable development.
Legal challenges in balancing agriculture and conservation on agricultural lands.
The role of zoning laws and land use ordinances in urban planning.
The legal aspects of land restoration and brownfield redevelopment.
The impact of climate change on land use and legal responses for adaptation.

Energy Law and Climate Policy

Analyzing the legal aspects of renewable energy development and integration.
The role of international agreements in promoting sustainable energy practices.
Legal challenges in transitioning to a low-carbon energy economy.
The impact of energy regulation on achieving climate change goals.
The legal implications of energy subsidies and their impact on sustainable energy.
Analyzing the effectiveness of carbon capture and storage technologies.
Legal challenges in promoting energy efficiency and conservation measures.
The role of energy law in promoting decentralized and distributed energy systems.
The legal aspects of energy infrastructure development and environmental concerns.
The intersection of energy law and indigenous rights in energy development.

Environmental Justice and Human Rights

The legal implications of environmental discrimination and equitable access to resources.
Analyzing the role of human rights in environmental protection and advocacy.
Legal challenges in seeking remedies for environmental harm and social injustices.
The intersection of environmental justice and indigenous rights.
The role of environmental litigation in advancing environmental justice.
Analyzing the effectiveness of public interest litigation in environmental cases.
Legal challenges in addressing environmental racism and marginalized communities.
The role of environmental ombudsmen and their impact on justice and accountability.
Analyzing the effectiveness of community-based environmental monitoring and advocacy.
The legal aspects of citizen engagement in environmental decision-making.

Climate Change Law and Adaptation

Evaluating the effectiveness of climate change adaptation policies and strategies.
Analyzing the legal implications of carbon pricing mechanisms and emissions trading.
Legal challenges in implementing climate change agreements and commitments.
The role of litigation in holding governments and corporations accountable for climate actions.
The legal aspects of climate-induced migration and displacement.
Analyzing the effectiveness of climate adaptation finance and funding mechanisms.
Legal challenges in promoting nature-based solutions for climate change adaptation.
The role of climate law in integrating climate resilience into infrastructure planning.
The legal implications of climate engineering and geoengineering technologies.
The impact of climate change on indigenous rights and legal responses for adaptation.

International Environmental Law and Governance

Analyzing the role of international organizations in environmental governance.
Legal challenges in enforcing global environmental treaties and agreements.
The impact of climate change litigation on international law and policy.
The role of soft law in shaping international environmental norms.
Analyzing the effectiveness of international dispute resolution mechanisms in environmental cases.
Legal challenges in addressing environmental crimes and transnational environmental harms.
The role of corporate social responsibility in international environmental governance.
Analyzing the effectiveness of international environmental impact assessments for development projects.
The legal aspects of trade and environmental protection in international law.
The intersection of human rights and international environmental law.

Emerging Issues in Environmental Law

Legal challenges in regulating emerging technologies and their environmental impact.
The role of legal frameworks in promoting circular economy practices.
Analyzing the legal implications of biotechnology and genetic engineering on the environment.
The impact of artificial intelligence and machine learning on environmental decision-making.
Legal challenges in addressing e-waste and electronic waste management.
The role of environmental law in governing nanotechnology applications.
Analyzing the legal aspects of ocean governance and marine conservation.
Legal challenges in addressing space debris and its impact on the environment.
The impact of legal principles on sustainable development in the digital era.
The legal aspects of protecting biodiversity in the face of emerging threats.

This comprehensive list of environmental law research paper topics provides a diverse and thought-provoking selection of themes to explore, offering valuable insights into the complex relationship between legal frameworks and environmental issues. Whether you are a student embarking on your research journey or a seasoned scholar seeking new avenues of inquiry, these topics are designed to stimulate critical thinking and foster a deeper understanding of the intricate world of environmental law.

Environmental Law: Exploring the Range of Research Paper Topics

Environmental law is a dynamic and evolving field that encompasses a wide range of legal issues concerning the protection, conservation, and management of the environment. As global concerns about climate change, pollution, and biodiversity loss continue to grow, environmental law plays a crucial role in addressing these challenges and shaping policies that promote sustainability. This section delves into the vast array of research paper topics within environmental law, highlighting key areas of interest and discussing the significance of exploring these subjects to address pressing environmental issues.

Climate Change and Mitigation Strategies

One of the most pressing issues in environmental law is climate change, and researchers have a plethora of topics to explore in this domain. Some potential research paper topics include the legal framework for international climate agreements like the Paris Agreement, the role of governments and corporations in climate change mitigation, the impact of climate litigation on policy formulation, and the legal challenges in transitioning to renewable energy sources.

Biodiversity Conservation and Wildlife Protection

Preserving biodiversity and protecting wildlife are essential aspects of environmental law. Researchers can delve into topics such as the legal framework for wildlife protection, the role of national parks and protected areas in biodiversity conservation, the impact of illegal wildlife trafficking on ecosystems, and the legal challenges in regulating bioprospecting and genetic resource exploitation.

Environmental Impact Assessment and Regulation

Environmental impact assessments (EIAs) are crucial tools for evaluating the potential environmental consequences of development projects. Research papers can focus on the effectiveness of EIAs in different countries, the role of public participation in the EIA process, the legal aspects of strategic environmental assessment, and the challenges in regulating emerging technologies through EIAs.

Pollution Control and Waste Management

Pollution is a significant environmental concern, and environmental law plays a pivotal role in regulating and mitigating its impacts. Researchers can explore topics such as the legal framework for air and water pollution control, the role of liability and compensation in environmental damage cases, the challenges in regulating electronic waste and plastic pollution, and the legal aspects of hazardous waste management.

Natural Resource Management and Conservation

The sustainable management of natural resources is critical for the long-term health of the environment. Research papers can delve into topics such as the legal framework for sustainable forestry and fisheries management, the role of indigenous and local communities in natural resource conservation, the legal challenges in water resource management, and the impact of land use planning on biodiversity conservation.

Environmental Justice and Equity

Environmental law intersects with social justice and equity issues, as certain communities may bear a disproportionate burden of environmental harm. Researchers can explore topics such as environmental racism and its legal implications, the role of environmental impact assessments in addressing environmental justice, the legal challenges in ensuring access to clean water and sanitation for marginalized communities, and the impact of climate change on human rights.

Renewable Energy and Green Technology

The transition to renewable energy sources and green technologies is a critical aspect of addressing climate change. Research papers can focus on topics such as the legal framework for promoting renewable energy projects, the role of intellectual property rights in green technology innovation, the challenges in regulating offshore wind energy, and the legal aspects of carbon capture and storage.

Environmental issues transcend national boundaries, necessitating international cooperation and governance. Researchers can delve into topics such as the legal framework for transboundary pollution control, the role of international organizations like the United Nations Environment Programme, the challenges in enforcing international environmental treaties, and the impact of trade agreements on environmental protection.

Corporate Environmental Responsibility

Corporations play a significant role in environmental impact, and environmental law seeks to regulate their activities responsibly. Research papers can explore topics such as the legal framework for corporate environmental reporting, the role of sustainability certifications and eco-labeling, the challenges in holding corporations accountable for environmental harm, and the impact of green finance initiatives on corporate behavior.

Land Use Planning and Urban Environmental Law

Land use planning and urban development have a profound impact on the environment and human well-being. Researchers can focus on topics such as the legal aspects of urban planning for sustainable cities, the role of environmental zoning and conservation easements in land use regulation, the challenges in balancing urban development with environmental conservation, and the legal implications of green infrastructure projects.

The field of environmental law offers a vast and diverse range of research paper topics, each contributing to a deeper understanding of environmental challenges and the legal mechanisms to address them. From climate change to biodiversity conservation, pollution control to renewable energy, environmental law provides an avenue for researchers to explore innovative solutions and policy frameworks that safeguard the planet’s future. By delving into these research topics, students can make valuable contributions to environmental protection and contribute to a sustainable and resilient world.

How to Choose Environmental Law Research Paper Topics

Choosing the right research paper topic is crucial for a successful and fulfilling academic journey. When it comes to environmental law, selecting a relevant and engaging research topic is not only essential for earning good grades but also for making a meaningful contribution to the field. Here are some valuable tips to help you navigate the process of choosing environmental law research paper topics that align with your interests, academic goals, and the current environmental challenges:

Identify Your Passion and Interests : Passion is the driving force behind exceptional research. Begin by reflecting on the aspects of environmental law that pique your interest the most. Consider whether you are more intrigued by climate change, wildlife conservation, pollution control, or any other specific area within environmental law. Identifying your passion will make the research process more enjoyable and motivate you to delve deeper into the topic.
Stay Updated with Current Environmental Issues : Environmental law is constantly evolving to address new challenges and emerging issues. Keep yourself informed about the latest environmental developments, global climate conferences, landmark legal cases, and policy changes. Staying up-to-date with current environmental issues will help you identify relevant and timely research topics that have real-world implications.
Consider the Practical Implications : An essential aspect of environmental law research is understanding how legal frameworks translate into practical applications. Evaluate how your chosen topic impacts communities, industries, ecosystems, and global sustainability efforts. Research topics that have tangible and practical implications are likely to generate greater interest and contribute to meaningful discussions.
Review Previous Research : Before finalizing your research topic, conduct a thorough literature review of existing studies in environmental law. Analyze the gaps in the literature and identify areas that require further exploration. Building upon existing research can provide a solid foundation for your own work and ensure its relevance in the field.
Seek Guidance from Professors and Experts : Don’t hesitate to seek guidance from your professors, advisors, or other experts in environmental law. They can offer valuable insights, suggest potential research topics, and help you refine your ideas. Engaging in discussions with knowledgeable individuals can lead to fresh perspectives and help you choose a research topic aligned with current academic interests.
Balance Complexity and Feasibility : While it’s essential to select a research topic that challenges you intellectually, be mindful of the practical constraints of your project. Ensure that the research topic is feasible within the given time frame and resources. Striking a balance between complexity and feasibility will lead to a well-executed and comprehensive research paper.
Consider Comparative Studies : Comparative studies in environmental law allow you to analyze legal frameworks and their effectiveness in different countries or regions. Investigating how various jurisdictions address similar environmental issues can provide valuable insights and open doors for cross-cultural learning.
Emphasize Interdisciplinary Approaches : Environmental law is inherently interdisciplinary, encompassing elements of science, economics, policy, and ethics. Consider topics that allow you to explore these interdisciplinary connections. For instance, you can investigate the economic impact of environmental regulations, the ethical implications of wildlife conservation policies, or the scientific basis for climate change mitigation strategies.
Evaluate the Policy Implications : Environmental law research often has a policy-oriented focus. Analyze how your chosen research topic aligns with existing policies or how it can influence policy formulation. Understanding the policy implications of your research will add practical significance to your work.
Brainstorm and Refine : Take the time to brainstorm multiple research ideas and then refine them gradually. Discuss your potential topics with peers and instructors to get feedback and suggestions. The iterative process of brainstorming and refining will lead you to a well-defined and compelling research paper topic.

Selecting an environmental law research paper topic is an important and exciting step in your academic journey. By identifying your passion, staying updated with current environmental issues, considering practical implications, and seeking guidance from experts, you can choose a research topic that not only interests you but also contributes meaningfully to the field of environmental law. Remember to balance complexity and feasibility, explore interdisciplinary connections, and evaluate the policy implications of your chosen topic. With thoughtful consideration and dedication, you can embark on a rewarding research endeavor that advances environmental law knowledge and addresses critical environmental challenges.

How to Write an Environmental Law Research Paper

Writing an environmental law research paper requires a systematic approach and a keen understanding of legal concepts, environmental issues, and academic writing conventions. Whether you are a seasoned researcher or a student new to the field, mastering the art of crafting an effective research paper is essential to convey your findings and insights convincingly. Here are ten essential tips to guide you through the process of writing a compelling and well-structured environmental law research paper:

Conduct Thorough Research : Begin your environmental law research paper by conducting in-depth research on your chosen topic. Utilize academic journals, books, reputable websites, and legal databases to gather relevant and credible information. Analyze previous studies, court cases, and legislation related to your topic to develop a comprehensive understanding of the subject matter.
Outline Your Paper : Creating a clear and organized outline is fundamental to the success of your research paper. Develop a well-structured outline that includes the introduction, thesis statement, main arguments, supporting evidence, counterarguments, and conclusion. A well-crafted outline will serve as a roadmap, ensuring your paper flows logically and cohesively.
Craft a Strong Introduction : The introduction is the gateway to your research paper. It should provide essential background information on the topic, state the purpose of the study, and present your thesis statement. A compelling introduction captures the reader’s attention and sets the tone for the rest of the paper.
Develop a Strong Thesis Statement : The thesis statement is the central argument of your research paper. It should be clear, concise, and specific, outlining the main point you aim to prove or discuss. Ensure that your thesis statement reflects the scope of your research and aligns with your chosen environmental law topic.
Use Clear and Precise Language : Environmental law research papers require clarity and precision in language. Avoid jargon and use straightforward terms to communicate complex legal concepts and environmental issues. Clearly define any legal terms or specialized vocabulary to ensure your readers understand the content.
Support Your Arguments with Evidence : As you present your main arguments, back them up with relevant and credible evidence. Cite case law, legislation, expert opinions, and empirical data to support your claims. Properly referenced evidence strengthens the credibility of your research and demonstrates your thorough understanding of the subject matter.
Address Counterarguments : Anticipate potential counterarguments to your thesis and address them in your paper. Acknowledging counterarguments and offering thoughtful responses demonstrate critical thinking and strengthen the overall argument of your research paper.
Analyze and Interpret Data : If your research involves data analysis, take the time to interpret the results accurately. Present your findings in a clear and organized manner, using charts, graphs, or tables if necessary. Analyze the implications of your data on environmental law and draw well-supported conclusions.
Discuss Policy and Practical Implications : Environmental law research often involves exploring policy implications. Discuss how your research findings can influence or inform environmental policy, regulation, or legal frameworks. Consider the practical implications of your research and offer recommendations for addressing environmental challenges.
Write a Convincing Conclusion : In your conclusion, summarize the key points of your research and restate your thesis statement. Emphasize the significance of your findings and how they contribute to the broader field of environmental law. Avoid introducing new information in the conclusion and end with a thought-provoking final remark.

Writing an environmental law research paper demands careful research, meticulous planning, and effective communication of ideas. By following these ten tips, you can craft a compelling and well-structured research paper that not only showcases your knowledge of environmental law but also makes a valuable contribution to the field. Remember to proofread your paper thoroughly and adhere to citation guidelines to ensure academic integrity. With diligence and attention to detail, you can produce a high-quality environmental law research paper that showcases your expertise and passion for the subject.

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100 Exceptional Sustainability Topics for 2023

Do you have an important environmental studies paper but are having trouble coming up with sustainability project ideas? Have you pored over your class notes and readings but have yet to come up with sustainability ideas you find interesting and challenging? This happens to a lot of students, especially when they are swamped with several other academic responsibilities to deal with.

Best Sustainability Topics For Your Research

We’ve put together 100 exceptional sustainability topics that can be used for a variety of situations. The list covers topics in sustainability for grade school, middle school, high school, college, and graduate school. Check out our list and see what inspires you. Our ecology topics may also come in handy.

Sustainability Topics for Students in Grade School

Describe the impact our carbon footprint means on future generations.
Describe the differences in sustainability education.
Explain how your school can adopt practices for a sustainable campus.
Does your school already adapt to a good sustainability program?
Does your school have solar panels on its buildings’ rooftops?
What are the benefits of adopting sustainability education into curricula?

Sustainability Paper Topics for Middle School

What does the impact of non-plastic waste in our oceans mean for the environment?
What effect do greenhouses have in growing our fruits and vegetables?
Should governments invest more in solar energy technologies?
How do solar panels make a home energy efficient?
Does your school have an optimized ventilation system?
Do modular classrooms improve campus sustainability?

Sustainability Research Topics for High School Students

Explain how modular classrooms can improve sustainability through the use of natural light.
What evidence is there to support that sustainable classrooms reduce absenteeism?
How much energy is saved by setting computers to shut off when they are idle?
What are the benefits of changing classroom hours to utilize natural lighting?
Should school terms be arranged around the seasons to conserve energy?
Can a game theory be applied to challenges in sustainability?

Sustainability Essay Topics for College Students

Explain how carbon footprint and bio-capacity differ in different countries and regions.
What are the biggest challenges companies face when trying to conserve energy?
What are the most impactful environmental groups cleaning up plastic in the oceans?
How many tons of plastic is there in the ocean?
What are the positive effects of reducing the brightness of computer screens?
Which countries have the least environmental protection laws?

Sustainability Dissertation Topics for Ph.D. Students

Compare and contrast non-profit groups focused on advancing sustainability.
Do sustainable classroom designs improve learning in students?
Can employers save on energy costs by adding more natural lighting?
What types of technologies exist to help deter environmental pollution?
Is veganism good for the environment?
Are paper towels more effective than hand dryers at reducing the spread of germs?

Environmental Sustainability Topics for Every Occasion

What is the correlation between a country’s GDP and pollution?
Why do cities with higher poverty rates struggle to start recycling programs?
What are the biggest political challenges affecting the U.S. environment?
What are the positive effects of switching to a vegan diet?
Should the U.S. take a greater role in helping third-world countries become sustainable?
How effective are your local environmental policies?

Interesting Sustainability Topics for Papers

Should college campuses ban the use of plastics?
How does the amount of food consumption impact the environment?
What does Sweden do so differently from other countries regarding its environment?
What are the best technologies in the market to reduce waste in large cities?
How does the use of plastic floating balls reduce evaporation in reservoirs?
Why has the United States failed to reduce the amount of food waste?

Sustainability Topics for Essays to Do Overnight

In what ways do improved recycling technologies impact how waste ends up in landfills?
How bad are plastic straws for the Earth’s environment?
Do taxes on single-use items reduce the amount of waste that goes into landfills?
Explain why certain states in the U.S. have had success banning plastic bags?
What is the correlation between overpopulation and pollution?
How will the world’s population in fifty years impact the Earth’s environment?

Sustainability Hot Topics for 2023

Does the Earth have enough resources to support the population in the 21 st century?
What can governments do to increase food resources?
Should cities ban the use of plastic straws?
Why is sea life so important to the ecosystem?
How much of our carbon footprint comes from farm animals?
Why is it so important to keep waste from ending up in our oceans?

Topics on Sustainability for a Long-Term Project

What are the benefits of getting a fair-trade certification on university campuses?
What are the benefits of buying food from local farmers?
Can your city impose a food donation program?
What can you do to bring a farmers market to your community?
Does buffet-style dining help or harm sustainability efforts?
Should cities impose a special tax on single-use plastic items?

Topics about Sustainability for a Short-Term Project

Can cafeteria food leftovers be donated to homeless shelters?
How do food programs help communities?
How much land is necessary to grow vegan food products?
What can cities do to help families with children during the pandemic?
What does it mean to be sustainable in the 21 st century?
Why is it important to support local food markets?

Sustainability Projects Ideas for High School Students

What would happen to greenhouse emissions if people ate less meat?
Can we improve air quality by eating less red meat?
What are the benefits of eating a plant-based diet?
Should your school introduce more vegan food choices?
Are pescatarian diets better for the environment?
What are the negative environmental effects of slaughterhouses?

Sustainability Ideas for Schools with Large Populations

What would happen if restaurants served buffet-like meals?
How difficult is it to reduce air pollution in large cities?
Should cities mandate community gardens to reduce food waste?
What are the benefits of incorporating public transportation systems?
Should cities mandate the use of solar panels in their larger buildings?

Controversial Sustainability Topics for Grad-Level Courses

Should we reduce the amount of technology-use to help the environment?
Do smaller classroom sizes help or harm the environment?
What would happen if we reduced the school week from five to four days?
Do shorter school days help reduce energy use?
In what ways has the Covid-19 pandemic affected the environment?

Fun Sustainability Topics List to Try at Home

Develop a sustainable education program for your family.
Find a new change to make your home more sustainable each week.
Teach your children the difference between renewable and nonrenewable resources.
Does keeping a home at a certain temperature help reduce energy costs?
How much food goes unused and ends up in your trash?

Sustainability Topics for Research Everyone Can All Do

How does pollution increase the level of sickness in people?
How does a developing country provide ample water resources?
In what ways does government policy help or hurt the environment?
Should cities create more public spaces (e.g. parks, riverbeds)?
What can be done to help developing countries maintain clean water?

Topics of Sustainability for Young People

Sift through your classroom’s trash and identify what can be renewed.
Discuss how Sweden has been able to turn its waste into heating.
What has Denmark done to reduce its food waste?
How can we improve the quality of care by reducing pollution?
What is the major ecological challenge the U.S. must face in the next 50 years?

Sustainability Research Paper Topics for Everyone

How do “green universities” help the mental health of students?
What are the most effective methods of growing your food?
What can people do in the community to reduce unnecessary waste?
How does gardening or landscaping improve air quality around the home?
What can cities do to create community gardens?

Need more assistance coming up with sustainability topics? Our team of research helpers can develop ideas for any type of assignment. From essays to dissertations, we’ve got you covered. Just let us know what you need and we will connect you with a pro that can work with you from the start to the end of your assignment.

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EDITORIAL article

This article is part of the research topic.

Towards 2030: Sustainable Development Goal 6: Clean Water and Sanitation. An Educational Perspective

Editorial: Towards 2030: Sustainable Development Goal 6: Clean Water and Sanitation. An Educational Perspective Provisionally Accepted

1 University of Science and Technology of Southern Philippines, Philippines
2 TUHH Hamburg University of Technology, Germany

The final, formatted version of the article will be published soon.

The United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (UN SDGs) constitute the cornerstone of the ambitious 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. These seventeen goals, envisioned to be achieved by 2030, embody an integrated approach that balances economic, social, and environmental dimensions of sustainability. They are structured around five fundamental pillars:• People: striving to eradicate poverty and hunger, ensuring that all individuals can thrive in a healthy and dignified environment.• Planet: safeguarding the environment while promoting sustainable utilization and management of natural resources.• Prosperity: fostering environmentally sustainable economic growth, mutual prosperity, and providing decent work opportunities for all.• Peace: cultivating peaceful, just, and inclusive societies where human rights and gender equality are upheld.• Partnership: enhancing global solidarity to address inequalities within and between nations, with a focus on the most vulnerable populations. Among these objectives, the sixth SDG, "Ensure access to water and sanitation for all," holds profound significance in advancing global sustainability and well-being. Despite progress in improving access to sanitation and clean drinking water, billions of people still lack these essential services, a situation exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic, which highlighted the critical role of hygiene and sanitation in disease prevention. Surprisingly, one in three individuals worldwide lacks access to safe drinking water, while two in five lack basic hand-washing facilities.Moreover, the escalating rate of global water consumption, coupled with challenges such as pollution, scarcity, and ecosystem degradation, underscores the urgency of addressing water-related issues. Tragically, preventable diseases linked to poor water and sanitation access claim the lives of nearly 1,000 children daily, while water-related disasters contribute to a significant portion of natural disaster fatalities. Furthermore, the discharge of over 80% of wastewater into oceans, seas, and rivers without adequate treatment exacerbates environmental degradation.Because of these formidable challenges, the global community finds itself falling short of the targets set forth by Goal 6, signaling an urgent need for a radical acceleration in adopting comprehensive water management strategies. As the clock ticks towards the 2030 deadline, it is evident that mere incremental progress will not suffice. The situation demands a paradigm shift-a concerted effort to overhaul existing practices and embrace innovative solutions that prioritize the equitable distribution, sustainable use, and conservation of water resources.In this critical juncture, education emerges as a beacon of hope and a powerful catalyst for change. Its role extends far beyond the confines of traditional classrooms; it is a force capable of permeating communities, shaping attitudes, and instigating meaningful action. This editorial aims to underscore the indispensable role of education in the pursuit of SDG 6, shedding light on recent research endeavors that illuminate its transformative potential.By delving into the educational dimension of SDG 6, we recognize that education serves as a cornerstone in cultivating a deep understanding of water-related challenges and fostering a sense of collective responsibility towards addressing them. Through targeted educational interventions, individuals can be empowered with the knowledge, skills, and mindset necessary to enact positive change in their communities. From grassroots initiatives to policy advocacy, education equips individuals with the tools to navigate the complexities of water management and champion sustainable practices.Drawing insights from a diverse array of research studies in this Research Topic: Towards 2030: Sustainable Development Goal 6: Clean Water and Sanitation. An Educational Perspective, we aim to showcase the multifaceted impact of education in advancing SDG 6. These studies offer compelling evidence of how educational interventions-from integrating water and sanitation education into curricula to promoting hygiene awareness among primary school students-can yield tangible results in improving access to clean water and sanitation facilities. Furthermore, they highlight the pivotal role of educators in shaping attitudes and behaviors towards water conservation, underscoring the importance of equipping teachers with the necessary knowledge and resources to effectively incorporate sustainability principles into their teaching practices. This study highlights the significance of incorporating water and sanitation education into academic programs, utilizing creative teaching approaches to actively involve students in comprehending water usage and chemical processes, thereby promoting sustainable behaviors.Similarly, Berhanu et al.'s study, "Hand washing practice among public primary school children and associated factors in Harar town, eastern Ethiopia: An institution-based cross-sectional study," underscores the critical link between hygiene behavior and education. By examining handwashing practices among primary school students, the study advocates for targeted educational interventions to promote hygiene awareness, contributing not only to SDG 6 but also to broader public health goals.Insights from "An international study of high school teachers' experience of incorporating water resources in their teaching," authored by Ching Ting Tany Kwee and Luis Miguel Dos Santos, highlight the pivotal role of educators in driving sustainable action. Understanding teachers' motivations and contextual factors can inform pedagogical approaches, promoting a holistic understanding of environmental stewardship among students.Central to these efforts is the cultivation of teachers' understanding of Education for Sustainable Development (ESD), as demonstrated in Robin Felix Schonstein and Alexandra Budke's study, "Teaching action competence in education for sustainable development -a qualitative study on teachers' ideas, opinions, attitudes and selfconceptions." By equipping teachers with the knowledge and skills to impart goal-oriented action competence, education becomes a catalyst for empowering students to tackle sustainability challenges effectively.In conclusion, achieving SDG 6 hinges on prioritizing education as a catalyst for change. This involves targeted curriculum enhancements, heightened hygiene awareness, and educator capacity-building. Investing in education is crucial as we move towards 2030, paving the way for a fairer, more resilient, and sustainable future. Key research areas include integrating water and sanitation education into curricula, enhancing educator training, and evaluating hygiene promotion programs in schools. Exploring these avenues offers valuable insights for leveraging education in SDG 6 attainment.

Keywords: Sustainable, development, Goal 6, Water, Sanitation

Received: 22 Mar 2024; Accepted: 08 Apr 2024.

Copyright: © 2024 Cimene, PhD and Otterpohl. This is an open-access article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License (CC BY) . The use, distribution or reproduction in other forums is permitted, provided the original author(s) or licensor are credited and that the original publication in this journal is cited, in accordance with accepted academic practice. No use, distribution or reproduction is permitted which does not comply with these terms.

* Correspondence: Dr. Francis Thaise A. Cimene, PhD, University of Science and Technology of Southern Philippines, Cagayan de Oro City, Philippines

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Researchers envision sci-fi worlds involving changes to atmospheric water cycle

Human activity is changing the way water flows between the Earth and atmosphere in complex ways and with likely long-lasting consequences that are hard to picture.

Land use change is altering where clouds form and how precipitation is distributed. Meanwhile, weather modification activities like cloud seeding are shifting how nations plan for water use in the face of climate change. These and other changes to the planet's atmospheric water cycle were once hard to imagine but are increasingly part of modern water management on the planet.

Colorado State University Assistant Professor Patrick Keys is an expert in climate and societal change. He has been studying these types of issues for years and realized there was a potential gap when it came to understanding -- not only in the public but among the water research community -- the lasting implications of these changes.

To better grasp how those kinds of activities could shape the world, he enlisted water scientists from around the globe to write story-based scenarios about the possible futures humanity is facing but perhaps can't quite comprehend yet. The results were recently published in Global Sustainability as part of a creative pathway to understand atmospheric water research with an eye towards the potential economic and policy issues that may be just beyond the horizon.

The work features striking artist-made images that pair with traditional science fiction narratives as well as alternative story forms like first-person journal entries. Keys said the package offers a wide path -- grounded in science -- to build a shared understanding of future water management activities and problems.

"Stories are everywhere and are an integral part of human life," he said. "They tell you something different from a graph in a research paper. They allow you to explore how people may feel or react to these kinds of changes. This kind of work provides agency for people and an opportunity to consider these changes no matter their background or level of understanding."

Research for this work came in three distinct phases, according to Keys. First, he used computational text analysis to find recurring themes in journal abstracts about the current state of atmospheric water cycle research. He then sorted the data -- identifying clusters of recurring terms against a grid of common economic goods principles for discussion. The goal, he said, was to better describe the ways humans and institutions may interact with the atmospheric water cycle in the future. Specifically: how entities in the future, such as countries or private actors, could eventually act to protect their own resources or how they may leverage advantages to gain access to water as a crucial natural resource in the future.

It's those relationships and interactions, Keys wanted to explore in the third part of this research and where science fiction comes into play.

Science fiction and reality of atmospheric water resources beyond 2050 With a better grip on the potential future relationships of water management in this space, Keys next asked experts to imagine a world that is decades in the future where activities like cloud seeding were common and the long-term results are more apparent.

The result was an exercise in science fiction storytelling with the specific goal of probing reality and envisioning even the weirdest possible outcomes.

"I think we have a sense that some futures are more likely than others, but we need to realize that to adequately cover the possible trajectories our world could head toward, models alone may not cut it," he said. "Especially when we are talking about things that are hard to quantify, like culture or perception, that may wind up playing a large part in the actual outcomes."

To create the narratives Keys hosted a series of workshops with interdisciplinary water experts from all fields and backgrounds and walked them through a 'futures thinking' approach. The experts were not siloed by discipline and topic during the exercise, with the hope of sparking even more creativity. In the end, 10 story-based scenarios were developed and are included in the paper. Keys also worked with the artist Fabio Comin over the course of a year to create the accompanying imagery.

Keys is based in the Department of Atmospheric Science in the Walter Scott, Jr. College of Engineering. He had several partners in the paper including postdoctoral fellow Rekha Warrier from the Human Dimensions of Natural Resources Department at CSU. Other researchers came from the University of California, Davis, the University of California, Los Angeles, the Stockholm Resilience Centre, and the Potsdam Institute for Climate Impact Research.

Keys said he is now using similar approaches for another project with the Colorado Water Center. He added that one of his goals with both projects was to ignite conversations around the water cycle at what is becoming a key moment for action globally.

"These scenarios have an ability to raise interesting questions about policy, regulation and enforcement -- what those all may look like," he said. "This approach can also help us recognize some of the aspects we may not be paying attention to and make better sense of it all."

Environmental Issues
Drought Research
Sustainability
Environmental Policies
Resource Shortage
World Development
STEM Education
Evaporation from plants
Funding policies for science
Water resources
Water scarcity
Sustainable land management
Surface runoff
Scientific misconduct

Story Source:

Materials provided by Colorado State University . Original written by Josh Rhoten. Note: Content may be edited for style and length.

Journal Reference :

Patrick W. Keys, Lan Wang-Erlandsson, Michele-Lee Moore, Agnes Pranindita, Fabian Stenzel, Olli Varis, Rekha Warrier, R. Bin Wong, Paolo D'Odorico, Carl Folke. The dry sky: future scenarios for humanity's modification of the atmospheric water cycle . Global Sustainability , 2024; 7 DOI: 10.1017/sus.2024.9

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