Introduction and Research Gap:
Universality is one of the paramount characteristics of United Nations (UN)Agenda 2030, and the aim of the global goals is pertinent to all communities, from global- to local level. For the advancements of sustainable development around the world, localization of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) plays a prominent role. The involvement of local stakeholders plays a key role in accomplishing the local, national, and global goals. Thus, the decentralized governance systems, especially at Local Self-government Institutions (LSGIs), face a major challenge in localization of SDGs. In the global efforts towards sustainable development in general, and in the process of localizing these efforts in particular, technology and innovation have been playing a vital role over the past decades. While numerous frameworks exist globally, there is a lack of integrated community-grounded models that integrate the technological tools and participatory methodologies for the effective implementation and monitoring of SDGs.
Aim:
By combining spatial data technologies with participatory engagement methods, this study aims to develop a replicable, technology-enabled, and community-driven model for localization of SDGs in Nanmamukku LSGI of Kerala, India.
Methods:
The study conducted a comprehensive household-level digital survey covering all residents of Nanmamukku LSGI. Drone-based spatial mapping was deployed for the identification of land use patterns, water bodies, agriculture zones, and local infrastructure. For preparing a holistic resource map, the geospatial data were integrated with demographic and skill-set data. Subsequently, Participatory Rural Appraisal (PRA) tools were used for validation and enhancement of data by engaging the community in identifying local priorities, gaps, and solutions. A mixed-method approach using Geographic Information System (GIS) analysis, participatory tools, and governance evaluation metrics were adopted.
Results:
The results reveal there are mismatches between actual ground realities and the available official data, particularly in the areas of resources used, waste management, and local economic potential. Drone mapping identified the underutilized land and water assets; finally, household surveys highlighted gaps in skill alignment and resource accessibility. Hence, the integration of PRA provided community-owned insights for enhancing SDG alignment.
Conclusions:
The study concluded that proposed data integration and participatory model for SDG localization helps in identifying real-time status of SDGs implemented. It can also be a scalable tool used across rural and semi-urban LSGIs in India. The results identified would help as a governance tool for evidence-based planning, social inclusion, and environmental sustainability. The study emphasizes the importance of combining emerging technologies with bottom-up approaches for resilient and sustainable local development.
Author Contributions
Conceptualization, methodology, supervision, final review and editing, B.T.; Investigation, data curation, formal analysis and writing of original draft, J.J. All authors have read and agreed to the published version of the manuscript.
Funding
This research received no external funding.
Institutional Review Board Statement
Ethical Review and appraisal were waived for this study as it primarily related with LSGI’s implemented projects and resources.
Informed Consent Statement
The study obtained informed consent from the Elected Representatives and Officials of the LSGI.
Data Availability Statement
The original contributions presented in the study are included in the presentation, further enquiries can be directed to the corresponding author.
Conflicts of Interest
The authors declare no conflict of interest.
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