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Exploring Sustainable Development Goal Research Trajectories in Small Island Developing States

Author

Listed:
  • Raghu Raman

    (Amrita School of Business, Amrita Vishwa Vidyapeetham, Amritapuri, Kollam 690525, India)

  • Walter Leal Filho

    (Research and Transfer Centre “Sustainable Development and Climate Change Management”, Hamburg University of Applied Sciences, 21033 Hamburg, Germany)

  • Hector Martin

    (School of Natural and Built Environment, Queens University, Belfast BT7 1NN, UK)

  • Suparna Ray

    (Amrita School of Business, Amrita Vishwa Vidyapeetham, Amaravati 522503, India)

  • Dayana Das

    (Amrita School of Arts and Humanities, Amrita Vishwa Vidyapeetham, Amritapuri, Kollam 690525, India)

  • Prema Nedungadi

    (Amrita School of Computing, Amrita Vishwa Vidyapeetham, Amritapuri, Kollam 690525, India)

Abstract

This study investigates the alignment of research on small island developing states (SIDSs) with sustainable development goals (SDGs), identifying key focus areas, interdisciplinary connections, research gaps, thematic clusters, and insights from case studies. By employing a mixed methods research design that combines quantitative scientometric analysis with qualitative case studies, this unique study examines the nexus between SIDS research and its contribution to SDGs. The findings reveal that SDG 13 (climate action) and SDG 14 (life below water) dominate SIDS research, emphasizing the need to address climate challenges and marine biodiversity. Economic aspects are underscored by SDG 8 (decent work and economic growth) and SDG 12 (responsible consumption and production), while urban development and inequality are addressed through SDG 11 (sustainable cities and communities) and SDG 10 (reduced inequalities). Renewable energy and food security are focal points in SDG 7 (affordable and clean energy) and SDG 2 (zero hunger). Moderate research outputs in SDG 3 (good health and well-being) and SDG 15 (life on land) suggest a holistic approach, while lower activity in SDGs 16 (peace), 6 (clean water), 4 (education), and 5 (gender) presents opportunities for further exploration. SIDS research is highly interdisciplinary, as seen through three distinct SDG networks: foundational social goals, economic and environmental objectives, and environmental preservation. The thematic clusters in SIDS research include environmental challenges and adaptation, public health, and socioeconomic development, and energy policy and environmental economics. Case studies from various SIDSs illustrate the complex interplay between environmental sustainability, economic development, and social well-being, highlighting the importance of tailored approaches, international cooperation, and local community engagement. These findings underscore the need for integrated research strategies to address the complex challenges of SIDSs, emphasizing climate action, sustainable economic practices, and comprehensive development approaches to achieve the SDGs effectively.

Suggested Citation

  • Raghu Raman & Walter Leal Filho & Hector Martin & Suparna Ray & Dayana Das & Prema Nedungadi, 2024. "Exploring Sustainable Development Goal Research Trajectories in Small Island Developing States," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 16(17), pages 1-25, August.
    • Handle: RePEc:gam:jsusta:v:16:y:2024:i:17:p:7463-:d:1466600
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    Cited by:

    1. Raghu Raman & Payel Das & Rimjhim Aggarwal & Rajesh Buch & Balasubramaniam Palanisamy & Tripti Basant & Urvashi Baid & Pozhamkandath Karthiayani Viswanathan & Nava Subramaniam & Prema Nedungadi, 2025. "Circular Economy Transitions in Textile, Apparel, and Fashion: AI-Based Topic Modeling and Sustainable Development Goals Mapping," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 17(12), pages 1-36, June.
    2. Steel Rometius & Xiaoxue Wei, 2025. "Blue Horizons for Resilient Islands: Legal–Technological Synergies Advancing SDG 7 and 13 Through the UNCLOS–Paris Agreement Integration in SIDS’ Energy Transitions," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 17(13), pages 1-20, June.
    3. Jeongmi Ga & Jaewoo Bong & Myeongjun Yu & Minjung Kwak, 2025. "Digital Enablers of Sustainability: Insights from Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) Research Mapping," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 17(15), pages 1-27, August.
    4. Raghu Raman & Sangeetha Gunasekar & Deepa Kaliyaperumal & Prema Nedungadi, 2024. "Navigating the Nexus of Artificial Intelligence and Renewable Energy for the Advancement of Sustainable Development Goals," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 16(21), pages 1-25, October.
    5. Prema Nedungadi & Kai-Yu Tang & Raghu Raman, 2024. "The Transformative Power of Generative Artificial Intelligence for Achieving the Sustainable Development Goal of Quality Education," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 16(22), pages 1-27, November.

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