This book provides some practical advice on how to address problems of sustainability in developing nations, demonstrating the precepts of the 'sustainable livelihood approach' (SLA) by examining a two-year case study of a microfinance operation in Africa.

We all view the ubiquitous term 'sustainability' as a worthwhile goal. But how can we apply the principles of sustainability in the real world, at the sharp end of communities in developing nations where income insecurity is the troubled norm? This volume provides some practical answers, explaining the precepts of the 'sustainable livelihood approach' (SLA) through the case study of a microfinance scheme in Africa. The case study, centered around the work of the Catholic Church's Diocesan Development Services organization, involved an SLA implemented over two years designed in part to help enhance its existing microfinance operation through closer links between local communities and international donors. The book's central conclusion is that we must move beyond the concept of sustainable livelihood itself, with its in-built polarities between developed and developing nations, and embrace a more global notion of 'sustainable lifestyle'; a more nuanced and inclusive approach that encompasses not just how we make a sustainable living, but how we can live sustainable lives.

Provides a critical review of the sustainable livelihood approach Looks at SLA in practice and not just in theory Explores some of the central challenges of putting SLA into practice Suggests how SLA can be modified to make it more relevant to all places on the globe; from sustainable livelihood to sustainable lifestyle Includes supplementary material: sn.pub/extras

Inhalt

Foreword.- Acknowledgements.- Chapter 1: Sustainability and Sustainable Livelihoods.- Chapter 2: The Theory Behind the Sustainable Livelihood Approach.- Chapter 3: Context of the Sustainable Livelihood Approach.- Chapter 4: The Sustainable Livelihood Approach in Practice.- Chapter 5: Livelihood into Livestyle.