Toward decolonizing sustainability research: a systematic process to guide critical reflections

Lowine Stella Hill; Sarah Ghorpade; Madu Galappaththi

doi:10.1139/facets-2022-0254

journal article Open Access Jan 01, 2023

Toward decolonizing sustainability research: a systematic process to guide critical reflections

Lowine Stella Hill

Sarah Ghorpade Madu Galappaththi

FACETS Vol. 8 pp. 1-11 · Canadian Science Publishing

View at Publisher Save 10.1139/facets-2022-0254

Abstract

With growing attention to the ethical and equity implications of Western-based approaches to research, the urgency of decolonizing research has emerged as a critical topic across academic disciplines, including the field of sustainability. The complexity and messiness of this endeavour, however, may translate into uncertainty among researchers about how and where to start. This is partly due to a lack of guidance, training, and accountability mechanisms through Western academic institutions. In this paper, we advance a three-step process that systematically guides critical reflection toward respectful engagement of local and Indigenous communities, as well as other marginalized groups, by drawing on the literature and on learnings from a recent graduate student-led initiative. The process we develop aims to provide a pragmatic starting point for decolonizing research and a counterpoint to conventional modes of research. Such a process will not only foster accountability, respect, and reciprocity but also movement toward locally relevant, context-appropriate, and action-oriented research outcomes. Our three-step process also challenges Western-based and extractive research practices and seeks to facilitate a shift in mindset about the purpose of research and how to approach it.

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Details

Published: Jan 01, 2023
Vol/Issue: 8
Pages: 1-11
License: View

Authors

L

Lowine Stella Hill

School of Environment, Resources and Sustainability, University of Waterloo

S

Sarah Ghorpade

School of Planning, University of Waterloo

M

Madu Galappaththi

School of Environment, Resources and Sustainability, University of Waterloo

Funding

University of Waterloo Award: Gender Equity Research Grant # (10001-10253) 2700

Cite This Article

Lowine Stella Hill, Sarah Ghorpade, Madu Galappaththi (2023). Toward decolonizing sustainability research: a systematic process to guide critical reflections. FACETS, 8, 1-11. https://doi.org/10.1139/facets-2022-0254

Toward decolonizing sustainability research: a systematic process to guide critical reflections

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