A conceptual framework for sociotechno-centric approach to sustainable development

This paper identifies technology, planning, and lifestyle as the main aspects of a holistic approach to the analysis of sustainable development in general and the sustainability of the built environment in particular. A single factor-based linear approach to sustainability issues is naïve at best and risky at worst, posing conflicts with other approaches and misrepresenting the true overarching picture that needs to be defined as a basis for setting development strategies. Integrating all the three aspects has been attempted for a holistic and effective approach to sustainable development. However, the current practice of integration involves a one-way, top-down relationship - from sustainable objectives, to technical and planning strategies, and finally to technology-driven lifestyle. In terms of the built environment, this imposed lifestyle puts under question users’ readiness and willingness to be part of the built environment. The task of solving these conflicts has often relied on education and economic incentives, which have not, however, always been effective. The paper argues that redefining the roles of technology, planning and lifestyle in a holistic framework, at least conceptually, is necessary for a sound approach to sustainable development.