Literature as a Catalyst for Sustainable Development: Exploring Narratives of Change

Abstract Literature remains one of the core mediums through which societies’ values can be shaped and in the case of sustainable development, it can be the main driving force for change. This research examines the effect of literature in promoting environmental protection, social equity, and cultural sustainability. By studying the ability of narrative to shape one’s worldview and galvanize action, the research demonstrates how literature is indispensable in promoting the sustainability agenda. Using an integrated approach, the researched literature expands on the gap within the literature on sustainability that focuses on the literature’s ability to provoke and shape empathy, awareness, as well as sustainable imagining. The reflection section raises the sustainability challenges and the opportunities enabled through the literature to use for the global efforts. Keywords: Literature, Sustainable Development, Environmental Awareness, Social Equity, Cultural Sustainability, Ecocriticism, Climate Fiction (Cli-fi), Storytelling, Empathy, Indigenous Narratives, Environmental Justice