Editorial Integrated and Sustainable Net Zero Implementation: The Role of Engineering Management for Sustainability

As COP28 drew to a close in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, the key message was that climate action is urgent so the promises made in previous conferences can become a reality. Reports, videos, and social media posts related to COP28 were encouraging, immediate, and meaningful actions with higher ambition and significant results to curb emissions and avoid the 1.5 °C temperature increase scenario. Another word is also in the discussion, however, attracting much less attention: that is
integration
. In other words, this very challenging climate action will require transitioning to greener energy systems, redesigning production and consumption systems, rethinking the role of traditional industries in our economies, and last, but not less important, reflecting upon our societal priorities and aspirations. For this, all stakeholders of a society are needed. And these integration efforts for sustainable behavior are not only needed at the governmental level, but also, on the regional, group, and individual levels [Brem and Puente, 2020].