A systems reset for sustainable development

Although sustainable development is an agreed vision for all countries, it lacks theoretical grounding. The contemporary market-based economy maximizes flows of material from nature through the economy to society, amplifying trends away from sustainability. We provide an alternative conceptualization of sustainable development, based not only on the flow of contributions from nature to economic actors, but equally of subsequent benefits to society, the effects of indirect drivers from society on economic actors, and direct drivers of economies on nature. This facilitates understanding of the dynamics and limits of the system, impacts on nature, the values influencing current trends away from sustainability, and of potential responses. This more holistic conceptualization enables actors to align their actions, supporting collective action towards sustainability across all scales. It thereby opens up space for inclusive co-habitation of the planet by people with diverse worldviews, enhanced achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals and more holistic framing for a post-2030 agenda for sustainability.