1.1 Introduction
The Sustainable Life Path Concept is defined as a deliberate approach to living in which individuals align their personal, social, and economic choices with long-term environmental stewardship, social well-being, and economic resilience (Jackson, 2009). This concept emphasizes the integration of sustainability principles into everyday life, ensuring that current actions do not compromise the ability of future generations to meet their needs (United Nations, 2015). In contemporary society, the increasing strain on natural resources, coupled with rapid urbanization and technological advancement, highlights the urgency of adopting sustainable life practices. Human activities such as overconsumption, reliance on non-renewable energy sources, and unsustainable agricultural and industrial practices have exacerbated environmental degradation, climate change, and socio-economic inequalities (Sachs, 2015).
As a prelude to other parts of this study, this chapter will discuss the background upon which this study was initiated, the statement of problems that led to this study, the aim and objectives of the study. Others are significance of the study, scope of work, research hypothesis and questions, limitation of the study and definition of terms.
1.2 Background of Study
The Sustainable Life Path Concept has emerged as a critical framework in addressing the growing challenges of environmental degradation, social inequities, and economic instability. According to Jackson (2009), sustainable living entails making conscious and deliberate choices that minimize negative impacts on the environment while promoting social well-being and economic resilience. It is a multidimensional approach that integrates personal development, responsible consumption, and ethical decision-making into everyday life (Jackson, 2009).
According to Sachs (2015), sustainability emerged as a global priority following the 1972 United Nations Conference on the Human Environment in Stockholm, which highlighted the need to balance economic development with environmental protection. Early discussions on sustainability primarily focused on ecological conservation, resource management, and pollution control. Over time, scholars and practitioners recognized that sustainability also encompasses social and personal dimensions, including health, education, ethical consumption, and community engagement.
It has been reported that the formal integration of sustainability into individual life practices began to gain traction in the 1980s and 1990s, coinciding with the publication of the Brundtland Report in 1987. The report, formally titled Our Common Future, asserted that sustainable development is development that meets the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs. Scholars have stated that the Sustainable Life Path Concept further evolved in the 2000s as the limitations of purely economic and policy-driven approaches to sustainability became evident. Jackson (2009) affirmed that individuals' consumption patterns, work-life balance, and social engagement significantly affect environmental and societal outcomes. Researchers have reported that unsustainable lifestyles, characterized by overconsumption, dependence on non-renewable resources, and disregard for social and environmental consequences, contribute significantly to climate change, resource depletion, and diminished quality of life (Sachs, 2015). It has been asserted that individual life choices, when aligned with sustainability principles, have the potential to mitigate these challenges and promote long-term societal stability. Sustainable life paths, therefore, are not solely about environmental conservation but encompass broader aspects of personal and communal development, including mental well-being, social responsibility, and economic prudence.
Several scholars have stated that education and awareness play pivotal roles in fostering sustainable life practices (United Nations, 2015). Furthermore, it has been affirmed that policy frameworks and cultural norms significantly influence the adoption of sustainable behaviors, societal, and institutional dimensions in achieving sustainability. On the other hand, some studies contend that despite growing awareness of sustainability issues, practical implementation remains inconsistent due to economic pressures, cultural expectations, and limited access to information (Jackson, 2009; Sachs, 2015). This study is set against the backdrop of these considerations, aiming to explore the factors influencing sustainable life choices and assess their implications for long-term development.
1.3 Statement of Problems
Investigation revealed that many individuals pursue short-term economic gains and personal comfort without fully considering the long-term implications of these choices on natural resources, social cohesion, and future generations. Also, the absence of structured frameworks for sustainable life planning limits the ability of people to make informed choices that support long-term resilience, fulfillment, and societal stability (United Nations, 2015; Sachs, 2015).
Additionally, increasing evidence shows that unsustainable life paths contribute to environmental degradation, stress-related health challenges, unemployment vulnerabilities, and weakened social relationships. Rapid urbanization, excessive consumption patterns, and dependence on non-renewable resources continue to strain ecological systems and reduce the quality of life for many populations (Jackson, 2009).
Furthermore, many individuals express positive attitudes toward sustainability, yet practical implementation in daily life remains inconsistent. Factors such as limited awareness, economic pressure, cultural expectations, and inadequate policy support hinder the translation of sustainability knowledge into sustained life choices. It is against this backdrop that this study seeks to examine the Sustainable Life Path Concept, explore the factors influencing its adoption, and assess its relevance in promoting long-term environmental, social, and economic well-being.
1.4 Aim and Objectives of Study
The aim of this study is to investigate the Sustainable Life Path Concept and assess its relevance, challenges, and impact on individuals' life choices in Nigeria.
The specific objectives of the study include:
- To examine the awareness and understanding of the Sustainable Life Path Concept among individuals.
- To assess the influence of existing systems, including education, policy, and community structures, on the adoption of sustainable life paths.
- To identify challenges hindering individuals from adopting sustainable life practices.
- To propose strategies for enhancing the integration of sustainable principles into personal and societal life choices.
1.5 Research Questions
The study came up with research questions so as to be able to ascertain the above stated objectives. The specific research questions for the study are stated below as follows:
- What is the level of awareness and understanding of the Sustainable Life Path Concept among individuals?
- How do existing systems, including educational frameworks, policies, and community structures, influence the adoption of sustainable life paths?
- What are the major challenges hindering individuals from practicing sustainable life paths?
- What strategies can be implemented to enhance the adoption of sustainable life principles in personal and societal contexts?
1.6 Research Hypotheses
In order to pursue the objective of this study, the following generalized statements have been designed to guide and aids in obtaining the result for the experiment to be conducted. For this work, the null hypothesis will be represented with H0 while the alternative hypothesis will be represented with hypothesis H1.
Hypothesis One
- H0: There is no significant relationship between existing systems and the adoption of sustainable life paths among individuals.
- H1: There is a significant relationship between existing systems and the adoption of sustainable life paths among individuals.
Hypothesis Two
- H0: Existing systems does not significantly influence the adoption of sustainable life paths among individuals.
- H1: Existing systems significantly influence the adoption of sustainable life paths among individuals.
1.7 Significance of Study
The outcome of this research will provide educators and policymakers with evidence-based guidance on developing programs and frameworks that encourage sustainable living and informed decision-making among citizens. Also, the study will contribute to the academic discourse on sustainability by exploring the practical challenges and opportunities associated with adopting sustainable life paths.
Furthermore, the study will inform organizations, non-governmental bodies, and governmental institutions about the importance of promoting sustainable life paths as a key component of achieving societal and environmental goals.
Lastly, this research will serve as a resource for individuals, communities, and institutions seeking to create a balanced and resilient society where environmental integrity, social well-being, and economic stability are maintained for current and future generations.
1.8 Scope of Study
The study focuses on the Sustainable Life Path Concept within Lagos State, Nigeria, targeting individuals, educational institutions, and community organizations.
1.9 Limitations of the Study
During the course of this study, there were some problems encountered which stood as limitations to the research work. Some of the limitations include:
- Time Constraint: The time frame given to accomplish this project was very short due to school academic calendar and it was carried out under pressure which made the researcher not to implement some necessary features.
- Financial Constraint: Insufficient fund tends to impede the efficiency of the researcher in sourcing for the relevant materials, literature or information and in the process of data collection (internet, questionnaire and interview).
- Initial Cooperation Delay from Respondents: A particular limitation of this work came as a result of the respondent refusal to offer their cooperation at the initial time they were contacted. This contributed in making the success of this research study difficult.
1.10 Definition of Terms
Sustainable Life Path: A deliberate approach to living where individuals make decisions that balance environmental, social, and economic needs, ensuring the well-being of both current and future generations (Jackson, 2009).
Sustainability: The capacity to maintain ecological, social, and economic systems over time without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their needs (United Nations, 2015).
Life Choices: Decisions made by individuals regarding personal, social, educational, and career aspects of life that have long-term consequences on well-being and societal impact (Sachs, 2015).
Environmental Stewardship: The responsible use and protection of the natural environment through conservation, sustainable practices, and ethical decision-making (Jackson, 2009).
Social Well-being: The state of having positive relationships, mental health, community engagement, and equitable access to societal resources (Sachs, 2015).
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