Bridging the gap: Integrating modern and traditional concepts of sustainability in Colombia

Sustainability is an important but not clearly defined concept that encompasses different perspec tives and approaches. Many sustainability frameworks address three dimensions (pillars) associated with the broad terms of ecology, economy and society. However, while 'modern' Western concepts are often characterized by an anthropocentric focus on the Earth's finite resources, moving (future) targets and an emphasis on economic growth and development, traditional concepts tend to have a more ecocentric perspective on the intrinsic value of nature, focus on present targets and emphasize the importance of livelihoods. In addition, Western concepts are often associated with greenwashing and can be perceived as 'green imperialism' when applied uncritically to the Global South, especially to Indigenous peoples and other marginalized groups, for example in Colombia. While it may be impossible to provide a universal definition of the concept of sustainability for Colombia, given the country's rich cultural, ethnic and biological diversity, a working definition in the context of marginalized groups could facilitate partnership and mutual benefit. Based on operational criteria that take into account the specificities of Indigenous, Afrodescendant and local groups and their territories, sustainability is defined here for Colombia as "the right of people and nature to live in balance". This book chapter also lists 20 recommendations for Western stakeholders on how to build long-term sustainability partnerships with marginalized groups based on the principles of cultural sensitivity, respect, consent and mutual benefit. Such partnerships can also help bridge the gap between traditional and modern concepts of sustainability by seeking an appropriate balance between global and regional contexts, ecocentric and anthropocentric views, human rights and the Rights of Nature, economic growth and livelihoods, and present and future targets.