Green Social Work (GSW): Ensuring Environmental Sustainability

Abstract

This chapter sheds light on the negative effects of environmental and climate phenomena on the planet and its inhabitants. It also shows the importance of enhancing environmental awareness among residents by highlighting the role of green social work (GSW) in raising this awareness among residents of all social segments to reduce catastrophic climate phenomena and ensure environmental sustainability. The chapter discusses some pivotal concepts, including GSW, environmental awareness, global warming, sustainable development, and environmental sustainability, in addition to local and international efforts to preserve the environment. It also seeks to highlight the role of GSW in developing environmental awareness and maintaining environmental sustainability. This chapter follows the qualitative approach, which is applied through the content analysis method of some field studies, reports, and theoretical literature interested in studying GSW, as well as the relationship between humans and the environment, environmental and climate phenomena, and problems, and their catastrophic effects on the Earth and its inhabitants. It also reviews the role of professional practices in GSW in developing environmental awareness and achieving sustainable environmental goals. It concludes by presenting general outlines of the content of a teaching curriculum for GSW to achieve sustainable development and environmental sustainability.

1. Introduction

People’s relationship with their environment is a necessary and obligatory relationship characterized by strength and mutual interaction that results in mutual influences. The outcome of these influences is determined based on the human ability to understand the environment, their view of it, and how they deal with and appreciate it. The aspects of this mutual relationship are unfolding, and its directions are becoming clearer with the increase in scientific discoveries in all different disciplines and sciences that are concerned with the relationship of human behavior to the environment in which they live. This relationship is characterized by complexity and many facets and patterns. It is always exposed to continuous disturbances, as confirmed by the frequently occurring environmental phenomena that the world suffers from today. Multiple environmental phenomena that afflict the planet and those on it are constantly increasing, and among these phenomena comes change. Climate change, global warming, and associated environmental problems such as hurricanes, floods, and torrents in some areas, drought, and desertification in other areas have harmful effects on the environment and humans.

The occurrence of disturbances in a person’s relationship with the environment in which he lives can be explained by his tampering with the necessities of life, as irrational human behaviors have caused pollution of water, air, and soil. While many theories exist to explain the complexity of environmental behavior, the role of individuals’ relationships with nature has not yet been fully clarified [1]. Hence, the question that arises is: how do we address the disturbance in the relationship between man and the environment in which he lives, interacts with, influences, and is affected by? Negative human interventions and unsustainable exploitation of natural resources have caused environmental degradation and climate change. Water and air pollution and the use of chemical pesticides and agricultural pesticides have led to soil pollution and decreased food quality. In addition, expanded industrialization and the use of weapons of mass destruction have undoubtedly contributed to environmental destruction and the loss of biodiversity and its sustainability [2].

2. Main topic

The twenty-first century has begun with an economic, environmental, and climate crisis that has led to urgent transformations in various social spheres to ensure the quality of life and care for the environment [3]. The climate change crisis and its effects are considered one of the most important changes that have occurred. Climate warming increases evaporation on land, which can worsen drought and create conditions more susceptible to wildfire and a longer wildfire season. It is also associated with the heaviest precipitation events (rain and snowstorms) through increases in the air’s capacity to hold moisture [4]. Many studies indicate that humans may cause these phenomena to a large extent, for example, regarding the recent forest fires in Turkey. According to studies on forest fire risk resources, tourists and local people living in or adjacent to forests cause forest fires due to socioeconomic reasons such as a low level of education, stubble burning, agricultural activities, tourism and recreational activities, illegal utilization, intentional negligence, a lack of knowledge and awareness, etc [5].

El Niño events favor drought in many tropical and subtropical land areas, while La Niña events promote wetter conditions in many places. These short-term and regional variations are expected to become more extreme in a warming climate [4]. The harmful effects resulting from the unbalanced relationship between man and his environment require us to seek to adopt a sustainable approach to development that achieves a balance between human needs on the one hand and respect for the environment and the preservation of its natural resources on the other. Also, working to enhance environmental awareness and encourage sustainable environmental practices in all aspects of life is a necessity that binds all relevant scientific professions and specializations by paying attention to educational curricula, environmental legislation, drawing up environmental policies, and linking them to development and sustainability. In addition, it is important to encourage clean technology and develop renewable energy sources as an alternative to relying on fossil fuels that are harmful to the environment.

The importance of GSW appears in introducing new issues into environmental discussions and increasing its centrality in the practice of the profession. It includes mainstreaming environmental considerations and expanding the theoretical and applied base to ensure that social and environmental justice are considered integral parts of any social workers’ environmental engagement [6]. In light of the previous presentation, the current chapter focuses on some environmental and climatic phenomena that have negative impacts. In addition to addressing the pivotal role of GSW in enhancing environmental awareness among residents, helping them change their behaviors in dealing with the environment, and training them to adopt sustainable practices that achieve a balance between human needs, protecting the environment, and making good use of its resources to ensure their sustainability. Thus, communication and cooperation must be strengthened between researchers, scientists, local communities, and governmental and non-governmental sectors to develop joint strategies and take effective actions to reduce the effects of catastrophic climate change and preserve the environment. Therefore, solving this complex problem requires coordination of efforts and joint scientific cooperation between all bodies and institutions concerned with the environment at all local, regional, and international levels.

3. Main objectives

The current chapter explains the role of GSW in raising the level of environmental awareness of the population for the purpose of rationalizing human behavior to limit the growth of climate phenomena with catastrophic impacts on the environment and its sustainability. To achieve this goal, it is necessary to discuss the following topics:

1. The main concepts, including GSW, environmental awareness, global warming, climate change, and environmental sustainability

2. International Efforts in Environmental Conservation and Sustainability

3. International Efforts in Environmental Preservation and Sustainability

4. Local efforts in environmental conservation and sustainability (the Sultanate of Oman as a model)

5. The role of professional practices in GSW in Achieving Environmental Sustainability

6. Proposing general guidelines for the content of a teaching curriculum for GSW to activate its role in developing environmental awareness and maintaining environmental sustainability

4. Methodology

The authors have followed a comprehensive scientific methodology to ensure accuracy and coherence in analysis and presentation. The chapter focuses on reviewing and analyzing the contents of some scientific studies and theoretical literature related to GSW. It also focuses on the central points of this concept and defines it precisely. The chapter discusses the role of sustainable development and environmental sustainability in the context of GSW by reviewing research and theoretical literature that indicates how GSW affects sustainable development and how it can contribute to enhancing environmental sustainability across various social, economic, and environmental aspects. The information and data related to this chapter were collected by relying on electronic encyclopedias, open-access publications, scientific journal websites, and statistical centers published on the internet, followed by citation and analysis. For climate phenomena, scientific evidence on climate change and its effects on the environment and society is reviewed. How GSW can adapt to these challenges through multidimensional strategies is also presented. Therefore, from the authors’ point of view, this chapter is expected to be based on a solid foundation for a deeper understanding of GSW and its role in ensuring sustainable development and environmental sustainability, based on documented theoretical literature and updated scientific studies that highlight the challenges and opportunities in this growing field.

5. Main concepts

The current chapter seeks to discuss several main concepts, including the following:

5.1 Green social work

GSW is a nascent framework within the social work field that provides insights regarding social workers’ engagement in disaster settings [7]. GSW is considered the newest branch of the social work profession, although it was previously practiced under the name environmental social work. It is an approach and perspective in social work that focuses on environmental sustainability and environmental justice in the context of sustainable development (SD) [8]. The relationship between social work and the environment is a strong one that dates back decades. To think of the environment as a universal right is to realize that, early on, it is connected to social work. In the first publication of “Social Diagnostics,” social work pioneer Mary Richmond integrates the environment as one of 10 factors to be investigated in a “Family Questionnaire” [9].

The number of publications that highlight the importance of integrating the natural environment into social work practice has grown exponentially [10]. A study of ecological and social work, conducted with 49 postgraduate students at the University of Gävle, Sweden, noted that the last decade has seen the emergence of the idea of GSW, a concept that is now widely recognized in the theoretical literature related to the social work profession [11]. It is increasingly recognized that social work has a vital role to play in shaping effective responses to environmental degradation, climate change, and disasters. Innovative teaching and learning strategies can be used to facilitate understanding of complex, interrelated, and systemic social, economic, and environmental challenges [12].

In light of the previous discussion, the authors present a specific procedural concept of GSW, as it is the latest field of professional practice for social work that is concerned with correcting the course of the relationship between man and his environment by adhering to professional principles and values in applying various methods of practice in order to reach the development of man’s environmental awareness and help him reduce the practice of GSW. Therefore, environmental justice can be achieved by preserving the environment and its resources and ensuring their sustainability for future generations.

5.2 Environmental awareness

The number of publications highlighting the importance of integrating the natural environment into social work practice has increased significantly. Historically, many non-Western traditions have integrated the natural environment into their worldview. A systematic review of 70 journal articles focusing on human-environment interactions in the context of natural disasters indicated that environmental status has a significant impact on human health and well-being [13]. In short, environmental awareness can be defined as understanding the environment, the impact of human behavior on it, and the importance of protecting it [14]. From our point of view, the pivotal goals of environmental awareness are to preserve the planet on which we live with other living organisms such as animals and plants, and then to preserve biodiversity by fulfilling the special requirements to reach this awareness. Environmental awareness includes reaching “human awareness that the Earth needs protection for its survival” [15]. Furthermore, Sánchez and Lafuente (2010) define this awareness as an individual’s understanding of the environment’s fragility and the need to preserve it by rationalizing the use of natural resources and reducing their degradation or pollution [16].

Accordingly, developing awareness among community residents is essential. It aims at creating a desire for joint action to confront the problems of their community and increasing their knowledge and understanding. It also aims to increase their ability to confront the facts related to the problems they live in. This goal is related to forming new orientations or modifying some prevailing ones. Urging individuals and groups in society to confront negativity and indifference is a tool that enables us to achieve the desired change [17]. Based on the belief that only things that can be measured can be managed and directed, measuring environmental awareness based on scientific and objective criteria is becoming increasingly attractive for scholars working in many different fields [18]. Therefore, measuring and developing environmental awareness is the responsibility of all societal professions and specializations to provide people with a sufficient degree of knowledge of environmental and local issues and problems and teach them how to act toward them. Hence, GSW bears the greatest responsibility for developing this awareness.

In conclusion, the researchers derive a procedural concept for environmental awareness, which consists of providing individuals with the following:

• Knowledge related to preserving the environment and environmental phenomena that disturb the ecological balance

• Knowledge that explains the contribution of human behavior to disturbing the environmental balance

• Knowledge about the danger of disturbing the environmental balance on Earth and on living organisms (people, animals, birds, plants, etc.)

• Be convinced of this knowledge and acquire skills that enable them to take actual individual and collective steps to deal positively with the environment and work to sustain it [19].

5.3 Greenhouse effect and global warming

Climate change is part of a natural disaster accompanied by the process of environmental degradation and harms human life holistically. The impact of climate change has become a serious problem experienced by various societal levels, without any exception [20]. Global warming is a term often used interchangeably with climate change, as it is one of the most important measures of global change [21]. Global warming is a natural phenomenon that is necessary for the existence of life, as planet Earth absorbs approximately half of the energy sent by the sun. In order for our planet to benefit from this energy, it must be kept in the rocky, atmospheric, and water atmosphere, and therefore it must be confined as if we were in a greenhouse. However, the envelope of this house is not made of glass or plastic, but from water vapor, clouds, gases, suspended solids, salts, acids, etc. ([22], p. 181).

Global warming occurs as a result of an increase in the temperature of the Earth’s surface and the troposphere (the lower layer of the atmosphere) due to the presence of water vapor, carbon dioxide, methane, and some other gases in the air. Among those gases, known as greenhouse gases, water vapor has the greatest effect [23]. With scientific progress, several other gases have been discovered that did not exist in the pre-industrial era. These are greenhouse gases that are considered filters for thermal rays in one direction. Although their percentage is small, these gases are more effective than the effect of carbon dioxide due to their ability to trap heat in the Earth’s atmosphere ([24], p. 163). As for the causes leading to global warming, multiple studies find that between 90 and 100% of climate scientists agree humans are causing global warming, with multiple studies converging on a 97% consensus. This position is also endorsed by the Academies of Science from 80 countries and many scientific organizations that study climate science [25].

5.4 Sustainable development and environmental sustainability

Sustainability is the key to ensuring a harmonious coexistence between human society, the environment, and the economy [26]. Especially in light of what modern statistics confirm, the growing population increases human needs, such as those for food, clothing, and housing, but there are limits to how much the world’s resources can be expanded to provide. Therefore, population management and control are essential for sustainable development [27]. Therefore, sustainability is very important for a safer and more just future for all current and future generations. Sustainability ensures that our needs are met without compromising the ability of future generations to meet theirs. It also preserves the environment, promotes social justice, and provides opportunities for economic growth in order to reach a better and more equitable world.

Sustainable development was a policy concept formulated to emphasize the importance of rational use of natural resources in meeting basic human needs and fostering environmentally responsible economic development [28]. The concept of sustainable social development plays an important role in the processes of development of society, and in thinking critically about the theory of sustainability [3]. In fact, the process of developing a specific and agreed-upon definition of sustainability and sustainable development is a complex issue, as until now there has been no universally accepted definition. However, sustainable development can be defined as development that meets the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs [29]. Sustainable development is also an approach to social, economic, and environmental planning that attempts to balance the social and economic needs of present and future human generations with the imperative of preserving, or preventing undue damage to, the natural environment [29].

Sustainable development is also known as a process of change in which the exploitation of resources, the direction of investments, the orientation of technological development, and institutional changes are made consistent with future as well as present needs ([27], p. 4). It is also development that meets the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs. Sustainable development can only be achieved if certain principles are followed. However, the economy, environment, and society are usually prioritized when discussing the fundamentals of sustainable development [30]. Mensah’s paper finds and argues that the entire issue of sustainable development centers around inter- and intragenerational equity, which is essentially anchored on three distinct but interconnected pillars, namely the environment, economy, and society [31]. Although capitalism, socialism, and communism have been utilized throughout history, their strengths and drawbacks have failed to address sustainable development comprehensively [27]. By highlighting how academics engage in the work of integrating sustainability, this study emphasizes that managers of higher education institutions need to account for the time and additional resources needed to ensure that academics effectively cope with sustainability. Intrinsic motivation may not last if organizational structures and leadership are not supportive on a practical level and in the long run [30].

In conclusion, it can be said that there is a strong closeness and connection between the concepts of sustainable development and environmental sustainability, and one can be used instead of the other. Environmental sustainability is an integral part of the concept of sustainable development. Environmental sustainability means preserving natural resources and managing them in a rational manner that ensures that the needs of current generations are met without compromising their rights or those of future generations. It aims to achieve a balance between three components: economic growth, social development, and environmental protection. In order for sustainable development to be achieved, the links between the environment and development must be studied. Also, it is important to take into account the ultimate goal of development, which is human well-being, as development ideas are based on the concept of human well-being as a central goal for policy discussion, and human well-being is the outcome of development. Human well-being and the state of the environment are also strongly interconnected ([32], p. 44).

Recently, we have found an emerging, almost global consensus on the meaning of the word “sustainability” and a more commonly agreed-upon definition of the “sustainability principle,” which is how to achieve sustainability and realize the promise of the sustainability principle through concrete goals and measures [33]. In conclusion, we emphasize that environmental sustainability stems from several basic principles: preserving natural resources, reducing pollution, preserving biological diversity, and protecting species and ecosystems to ensure the continuity of life on Earth. We also rely on renewable energy, innovation, and technology to develop environmentally friendly technologies. It supports sustainability, reduces environmental impact, and promotes environmental justice to ensure a fair distribution of environmental benefits and burdens among all members of society while preserving the rights of future generations. All in order to create a system that can support human and natural life in a sustainable and harmonious manner with the environment.

6. International efforts in environmental preservation and sustainability

In this section, we will highlight international efforts aimed at preserving the environment from human tampering with its resources. Environmental risks have become a concern that worries governments and preoccupies people with the dangers they represent to the environment and to the lives of humankind across the globe. This is confirmed by the results of many specialized scientific studies that have proven that climate change will lead to an increase in volcanic activity and earthquakes, especially if the ice sheets in the Arctic and Antarctica melt [34]. Thus, natural disasters worsen, and we can cite the effects of the severe storm “Sandy” that struck the United States in November 2012. In addition, regardless of the origin of the disaster caused by that storm, its impact will be clear on the lives of living organisms and the natural environment. The degraded environment left by disasters will exacerbate the environmental discrimination felt by the poor [35].

Numerous scientific studies explain that climate change triggers various environmental changes that threaten the survival and welfare of society. Climate change adaptation and mitigation have become the preventive and repressive strategies for controlling climate change [20]. Increasing global risks and the destruction of the environment have driven international organizations to take initiatives for research programs that are both cross-disciplinary and cross-national [36]. Consequently, throughout the past 20 years, there has been a noticeable increase in interest in environmental management and an improved general understanding of environmental issues at all societal levels. It has even grown to be one of the most significant pioneering social objectives, achieving a never-before-seen degree of social and political unity.

The United Nations (UN) is the most important and largest international organization that plays a decisive role in the environmental field. It is committed to addressing global environmental challenges and promoting sustainable development throughout the world. The United Nations Conference on Environment and Population, held in Stockholm in June 1972, issued a warning early to alert the world to the human dangers to the environment and that man is the one who creates and shapes his environment, which gives him sustenance and gives him the opportunity to achieve intellectual, moral, social, and spiritual growth. It was stated in the “Stockholm” Declaration on the Environment and Population: We have reached a stage in history at which we must formulate our actions around the world with more caution, given the environmental impacts they may have. Through ignorance or indifference, we can cause serious and irreversible damage to the Earth’s environment, on which our lives and well-being depend. On the contrary, we can do so through more knowledge and action. It is wiser to achieve a better life for ourselves and our future generations in an environment more compatible with human needs [37].

Although progress had been made in developed countries in improving air and water quality, tightening controls on chemicals, and preserving nature’s elements, most developing countries were witnessing environmental destruction at a speed and scale never seen before. Many newly industrialized countries have suffered massive environmental degradation. In many regions, environmental destruction is beginning to undermine the prospects for future development and perhaps even the potential for the continued survival of the world. The results of the United Nations Environment Programme report indicate that the accelerating human impact on the Earth is rapidly outpacing the ability of largely existing strategies to respond to and address environmental impacts and the modest and often meager budgets allocated to address them ([38], p. 8).

Global interest in the problem of global warming also began in the late 1980s. At the Earth Summit in Rio de Janeiro in 1992, 160 countries signed a treaty on climate change. It was followed by several conferences that resulted in “The Kyoto Protocol” in 1997, where the international community committed to reducing emissions of heat-trapping gases, especially carbon dioxide ([22], p. 186). The Kyoto Protocol provides several ways for countries to achieve their goals. The first way is to benefit from natural processes known as “sinks,” which remove greenhouse gases from the atmosphere, such as planting trees that consume carbon dioxide. The second method is the Clean Development Mechanism (CDM), which encourages developed countries to invest in technology and infrastructure in developing countries to reduce emissions. The investing country has the right to demand an effective reduction in emissions as a credit to achieve its obligations, such as investing in power plants that run on clean gas instead of coal. The third method is emissions trading, which allows countries to buy and sell emissions rights, placing an economic value on emissions. Some European countries have started an emissions trading market to fulfill their obligations under the Kyoto Protocol. Countries that do not meet their targets will pay the emissions differential plus a 30% penalty in the next compliance period in 2012 and will be prohibited from participating in emissions trading until they comply with the protocol. In the future, emissions targets for the post-2012 period will be set in future protocols [39].

International cooperation continues between governments and United Nations environmental organizations in order to reduce the catastrophic effects of climate change. Work was done to reduce the effects of natural disasters and prevent further environmental damage. Disaster risk management strategies have been developed as an attempt to deal with these impacts, and many governments have worked to implement them and build sustainable infrastructure in Asian countries. For example, some countries, such as Laos, Vietnam, and Cambodia, have worked on a flood and drought risk management and mitigation project. In order to reduce the resulting economic losses, the water management structure is combined with improvements in weather forecasting. In 2013, the Philippines’ Integrated Disaster Risk Management Fund became the world’s first city disaster insurance fund, covering typhoons and earthquakes. Other southeastern countries in Asia have also tried to replicate extreme weather insurance funds. In addition to previous efforts, the road sector databases in “Laos and Cambodia” are integrated into the existing database of the United Nations Development Programme with the aim of tracking disaster losses in vital sectors, and the same project is implemented in the private sector in the “Philippines, Thailand, and Vietnam” [40]. The “Convention on Biological Diversity” initiative is also one of the most important initiatives in this regard and aims to protect threatened species and establish natural reserves [41]. International cooperation also takes place through the United Nations Environment Programme to promote sustainable environmental policies and reduce pollution [42].

In conclusion, recent years have witnessed increasing international efforts to preserve and sustain the environment. Countries and global organizations cooperate to address the increasing environmental challenges. One of the most prominent of these efforts was the “Paris Climate Agreement” in 2015, where countries pledged to reduce carbon emissions to limit rising temperatures [43]. The Sustainable Development Goals launched by the United Nations in 2015 also support environmental initiatives, especially Goal 13 on climate action and Goal 15 on life on Earth [44]. Public-private partnerships are also an essential part of these efforts, as companies work with governments to develop green technologies and reduce the environmental impact of industries. These initiatives demonstrate an increasing global commitment toward a sustainable future, despite the great challenges facing the world in this field [45].

There are also many international organizations that pay great attention to the environment in monitoring, control, awareness, etc., including the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), the World Health Organization (WHO), UNESCO, the Scientific Committee on Environmental Problems (SCOPE), the International Academy for Environmental Security (IAES), the International Society for Environmental Toxicology (SECOT), the Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD), the United Nations Environment Program (UNEP), the United Nations Industrial Development Program (UNIDO), the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), the United Nations Scientific Committee to Study the Effects of Atomic Radiation (UNSCEAR), and many others, which reflects the extent of contemporary interest in environmental issues [46].

7. Local efforts in environmental conservation and sustainability (the Sultanate of Oman as a model)

Sultan Qaboos bin Said, Sultan of Oman (1970–2020), contributed to establishing and developing the environmental institutional and legislative structure at the national and global levels. Since the beginning of the Renaissance era and taking over the reins of government in Oman in 1970, and at an early stage in the state’s life, he laid the foundation stone for organizing and managing environmental work. The Royal Decrees graduated in the environmental sector, confirming the development of the legislative aspect over the past five decades of his rule. The historical starting point was the establishment of the Office of the Environmental Protection Adviser in 1974. In the same year, the Public Authority for Environmental Protection and Pollution Control was established pursuant to Supreme Royal Decree No. 14/79, followed by the establishment of the Environmental Protection and Pollution Control Council in 1979 pursuant to Supreme Royal Decree No. 68/79. In 1984, the Ministry of Environment was established pursuant to Supreme Royal Decree No. 45/84, after which royal decrees continued until the Ministry of Environment and Climate Affairs was announced as an independent institution concerned with the environment by Supreme Royal Decree No. 90/2007 on September 9, 2007 [47].

The Sultanate also moved to draw up an integrated national strategy for environmental diversity, a strategy that focused on the successive five-year development plans that the Sultanate has been implementing since 1976. That strategy focused on renewable and non-renewable resources and emphasized the importance of sectoral integration and the national cooperative approach in the use and management of resources. In addition to monitoring the Sultanate’s achievements in the fields of nature conservation and environmental protection, highlighting the obstacles and negatives and emphasizing the role and place of the Omani person are means and goals of development [48]. The Sultan Qaboos Award for Environmental Protection was also launched as the first international Arab award in the environmental field in 1989 to be awarded every 2 years to any individual, group, institution, or organization that contributes to preserving the environment and managing its resources anywhere in the world. The award is considered an expression of appreciation and recognition for the efforts and fruitful contributions made by the candidates and an encouragement to contribute to preserving the environment for others. The award is granted through the International Coordination Office of the Man and the Biosphere Program at UNESCO [49].

In continuation of the Sultanate’s approach to caring for the environment and working to preserve it, Royal Decree No. 114/2001 issued the ‘Environmental Protection and Pollution Control Law’. In its second chapter, the basic rules and principles for ensuring the safety of the Omani environment are included. Its third chapter contains the penalties related to assaulting or tampering with the environment, with all its environmental contents—natural, animals, birds, plants, and trees [50]. The Sultanate continuously seeks to avoid many of the potential impacts of climate change on natural, economic, and social systems by preparing to manage the risks of climate change by taking measures and preparing national strategies to mitigate greenhouse gas emissions, and others are concerned with adapting to those impacts to confront potential risks in this regard. The Sultanate’s interest in environmental issues and climate affairs and its continuous support for these efforts have culminated in achieving many practical measures. Among these measures are the Sultanate’s signing of international agreements related to climate change and the issuance of Ministerial Resolution No. 41/2008 regarding the formation of the steering committee to coordinate and supervise the implementation of the capacity building project in the field of climate change, which is implemented by the Ministry in cooperation with the United Nations Development Program [49].

The Sultanate of Oman is also keen to strengthen its international presence in all regional and international forums by participating in global conferences, as His Majesty Sultan Haitham bin Tariq, may God protect him, affirmed in his speech on the occasion of the 32nd anniversary of the establishment of the Sultan Qaboos Award for Environmental Protection: “Protecting the environment and preserving its various natural resources are among the priorities of the development plans in the Sultanate of Oman, based on our firm conviction that caring for the environment and its resources is a global responsibility that is not limited by the political borders of countries. Hence, this is what the international community should be keen to do by providing all available capabilities to maintain the system, preserving its natural resources, developing action plans to achieve sustainable development goals at the national, regional, and international levels, spreading awareness of the importance of preserving the balance of the environment, and investing in its resources to the extent that achieves development and ensures its sustainability for future generations” [51].

Moving toward a sustainable environmental future, the Sultanate’s Vision 2040 includes a main axis related to the priorities associated with the sustainable environment. This axis includes many goals that work to achieve sustainability, such as:

• Reaching an environment that achieves a balance between environmental and economic

• Working with the rules of sustainable development, renewable energy, diverse sources, and rationalization of consumption to achieve energy security and social requirements

• High-quality, pollution-free environmental environments, a green and circular economy that responds to national needs and is in line with global orientation

• Food and water security based on renewable resources and advanced technologies

• Optimal exploitation of the strategic location and biodiversity of the Sultanate of Oman

• Environmental awareness in the effective application of sustainable consumption and production rules

• Sustainable use and investment of natural resources and wealth to ensure the achievement of high-added value [52].

8. The role of green social work in achieving environmental sustainability

Climate change is an issue of social justice and a basic human right. Therefore, it requires the attention of the social work profession based on the international organizations’ emphasis that human rights and the environment are interconnected. A person cannot enjoy his rights without a safe, clean, and healthy environment, and safe environmental sustainability cannot exist without establishing and respecting human rights [53]. GSW calls for working to rationalize the human relationship with the environment through cooperation between various professions and specializations concerned with the environment. The profession of social work has a role to play in greening and sustaining the environment [54]. It claims to be an innovative approach to environmental issues as practiced in the social work profession [55]. This innovative view expands to include all living organisms on Earth, such as humans, animals, and plants, and the impact of these organisms on the ecosystem. In order to emphasize the relational support between them for the purpose of preserving the status and privacy of the planet and everyone who lives on it, environmental problems receive a degree of attention at all levels of professional practice in social work (micro, mezzo, and macro levels). However, we look forward to more of this attention, as the planet is constantly witnessing more dangerous environmental phenomena that are accompanied by harmful effects.

As environmental concerns have increased, national and international social work organizations have called on social workers to incorporate issues of the environment into their professional practice. Although there is a small body of literature related to social work and the environment, the profession has not fully embraced the need to incorporate these issues into social work education or practice [56]. Hence, concerns are increasing at all levels of professional practice and academic institutions, which requires taking proactive steps to rationalize human behavior in dealing with turbulent environmental situations. To address today’s complex problems, social work must inform itself of advances in the knowledge base of the natural and social sciences, particularly those that explain the changing construction of different systems and the way the world works. These explanatory theories offer a relevant understanding of the social, economic, and ecological contexts within which social workers practice [57]. Accordingly, it is important to assess social workers’ knowledge and attitudes regarding the environment ([56], p. 5). This is for the purpose of identifying what they lack in environmental knowledge and information that can help them understand and explain the behaviors of individuals that cause environmental phenomena. That knowledge also improves their professional interventions with individuals and communities affected by environmental disturbances and problems.

Professional social work organizations must realize that the world today lives in the current “social-ecological crisis” that demands a major social transition to a sustainable society that touches all dimensions of our lives. So, social work cannot escape this process [58]. This requires viewing the environment as one of the elements of the professional practice process, and therefore the focus of practice is on strategies for development, empowerment, and the formation of social and environmental capital as strategies to assist in the processes of transformation and the desired social and political change. Therefore, GSW must rely on environmental planning and achieve local sustainable development through increased reliance on the active participation of affected communities. Hence, residents’ participation in development plans, consensus building in environmental conflict situations, and residents’ participation in the design of local facilities are also required [59]. Dominelli’s study (2014) argues for the inclusion of environmental justice in contemporary social work practice as one way of promoting inclusionary social work that meets some of the challenges of the twenty-first century [60].

The social work profession’s keen interest in human rights, social justice, and community building also creates a sound base from which to engage in the collaborative, creative, and interactive processes required for environmental practice [61]. Based on the above, social workers must be called upon to take the necessary measures to address these environmental issues as a strong and unified profession that works side by side with the deprived and marginalized, who do not receive their share of global resources, despite their limited environmental footprint. Proposing a new model of practice rooted in environmental justice that promotes the well-being of people, plants, animals, and the ecosystem is imperative [35].

The historical involvement of social workers in women issues such as poverty alleviation, domestic violence, displacements, social inequality, and destitution, among other challenges faced by rural women, is the ambient platform for social workers to embrace their crisis intervention skills to infuse climate dynamics change into their interventions [62].

In this regard, a study confirms that environmental social workers are indispensable in empowering society, especially in encouraging environmental improvement to remain sustainable for the prosperity of society [20]. Another study presents a model based on experiences in southern Africa to provide some guidance for social workers on how best to mainstream gender dimensions in climate change interventions. This would foster social and environmental justice, social resilience, equal participation in the climate change discourse, capacity building, and adaptive capacity for rural women [62]. Ogunbode and Arnold’s study suggests that given the current socioeconomic situation in Nigeria and limited knowledge of environmental issues, the most effective strategy for promoting environmentally responsible behavior and positive attitudes regarding less obvious issues such as biodiversity loss might simply be to increase exposure to direct messages emphasizing their relevance [63]. This would enhance empowerment and build capacity to deal with environmental sustainability issues. Within the framework of professional interventions, social workers face many contemporary challenges: the difficulties faced in supporting human rights, social justice, and active citizenship; the difficulties related to affirming environmental justice and preserving the planet; and the practice of social work and addressing climate change and other disasters [35]. With the successful implementation of a holistic approach to sustainability, students will have better insights and understanding of both themselves and the surrounding society, laying the groundwork for an inclusive future society [30].

In conclusion, the authors believe that GSW can play a pivotal role in developing environmental awareness and achieving sustainable environmental goals for the population in general by providing direct professional services in multiple professional practice institutions, such as universities, schools, sports and youth clubs, and others. Green social workers can also practice their professional roles by performing the following tasks:

1. Organizing targeted awareness campaigns and programs that target all segments of society (children, adolescents, young people, and the elderly) introduces them to environmental issues, their importance, and the role of the population in preserving the environment and its natural resources. These campaigns can be implemented through organized training programs, workshops, seminars, lectures, and media releases to raise the level of environmental awareness among the population.

2. Enhancing community participation in environmental activities such as volunteer camps in schools and youth centers, collective cleaning campaigns for beaches and streets, recycling projects, and afforestation not only reflects the improvement and protection of the environment but also develops the spirit of cooperation and teamwork among residents in local communities.

3. Developing and implementing environmental programs and projects will spread environmental awareness and achieve sustainability. Green social workers can provide support and advice to individuals and communities to adopt environmentally friendly practices, tend to rely on clean sources of energy, use renewable energy, and turn to organic agriculture, all of which can contribute to achieving environmental sustainability.

4. Green social workers can exercise their professional roles as intermediaries between local communities and government agencies, helping to achieve effective environmental policy goals. In this regard, they can participate in meaningful community dialogs and positively influence officials to help them make appropriate environmental decisions in order to ensure access to sustainable environmental policies.

5. Green social workers adopt work to strengthen environmental education in schools and educational institutions, with the aim of instilling the values of environmental sustainability in current generations. This education adopts integrated curricula and practical activities that develop awareness of environmental issues and work to sustain them.

The outcome of the above is that professional practices of GSW contribute significantly to developing environmental awareness and achieving sustainable environmental goals through many paths, such as environmental awareness, community participation, participation in drawing up environmental policies and strengthening environmental education curricula at all educational levels.

9. General guidelines for the content of a teaching curriculum for green social work

This curriculum aims to provide students with the knowledge and skills necessary to activate their role in developing environmental awareness and maintaining environmental sustainability through the practice of GSW. The proposed curriculum begins by shedding light on the concept of GSW and its importance in the environmental context and is expected to include five basic units, which are:

9.1 Unit one: basics of environment and sustainability

This unit addresses basic environmental concepts such as biodiversity, climate change, global warming, and natural and industrial environmental disasters, in addition to explaining the principles and goals of sustainable development.

9.2 Unit two: professional roles of the green social worker

It is concerned with clarifying the role of the social worker in promoting environmental awareness and applying sustainability practices, training students in effective listening skills, communication, environmental education, and running workshops, seminars, and all other tools and means of professional work.

9.3 Unit three: community work and environmental initiatives

This unit includes helping students develop and implement community projects aimed at improving the local environment, such as afforestation and recycling campaigns, and enhancing cooperation with civil society organizations and government institutions to support environmental initiatives.

9.4 Unit four: environmental education and awareness

This unit aims to help students design awareness programs to increase environmental awareness in all professional practice institutions, such as schools, universities, clubs, youth centers, etc., and how to benefit from social media networks in environmental education and awareness.

9.5 Unit five: environmental policies and legislation

This unit focuses on helping students know national and international environmental laws and legislation and how social workers participate in formulating environmental policies at all local, regional, and international levels.

The proposed approach concludes by addressing methods for evaluating the effectiveness of environmental programs and developing them to ensure sustainability and positive impact. By studying this curriculum, students are expected to be able to play an effective role in promoting environmental awareness and contributing to preserving the environment through GSW practices.

10. Conclusion

This chapter discusses in detail the negative influences of environmental and climate phenomena on our planet and its inhabitants. The chapter highlights the urgent need to raise environmental awareness among all segments of society, emphasizing the pivotal role played by GSW in promoting this awareness. By addressing key concepts such as environmental awareness, global warming, and sustainable development, along with environmental conservation efforts at the local and international levels, the chapter demonstrates the significant contributions of GSW to achieving environmental sustainability. By adopting a qualitative approach, which includes content analysis of field studies, reports, and theoretical literature, it highlights the deep links between human activities, environmental challenges, and their disastrous consequences. Furthermore, the chapter discusses the importance of professional practices within GSW in promoting environmental awareness and achieving sustainability goals. The chapter concludes by presenting an outline of the content of a GSW educational curriculum aimed at promoting sustainable development and ensuring a sustainable environmental future.