Environmental Leadership in a VUCA Era: An Interdisciplinary Handbook

Amidst the escalating Triple Planetary Crisis―climate change, biodiversity loss, and pollution―traditional leadership approaches are no longer sufficient. Environmental Leadership in a VUCA Era presents a transformative vision for addressing these complex, interconnected global challenges. The book is structured to support both academic inquiry and practical application, featuring contributions from diverse disciplines, including environmental philosophy, environmental science, environmental management, environmental psychology, leadership, management, organizational psychology, public administration, and education. Drawing on rich philosophical traditions, it examines humanity’s relationship with the natural world and our moral responsibilities to protect ecosystems for future generations. Additionally, it highlights influential figures and organizations that have become beacons of hope and catalysts for change, demonstrating the power of collective action and sustained commitment. This comprehensive handbook provides insights into effective environmental leadership, governance strategies, and educational approaches, equipping readers with the knowledge and skills necessary to lead impactful environmental initiatives across public, private, and non-profit sectors. Designed for students, educators, researchers, policymakers, and practitioners, this book is an essential resource for fostering sustainability and developing the next generation of environmental leaders worldwide.

Qing Miao is a Professor at the School of Public Affairs and a senior researcher at the Academy of Social Governance, Center of Social Welfare and Governance, Zhejiang University. He also serves as Dean of the Business School at NingboTech University. His extensive research interests encompass leadership in the public, private, and non-profit sectors, public management theory, and human resource management, with a particular focus on leadership effectiveness. Over his career, he has authored six academic monographs and published more than 100 papers in prominent journals such as Public Administration Review, Public Management Review, and Public Administration. His academic contributions extend beyond research; he has been a visiting scholar at institutions like MIT, Singapore University of Technology and Design, University of Ljubljana, and the University of Edinburgh. He is also an active policy advocate, with over 60 think tank reports approved by government leaders and applied across multiple policy areas. As Vice President of Green Zhejiang, a renowned non-profit organization, for over a decade, he has led numerous environmental protection projects, inspiring others through his leadership. His commitment to public welfare is further reflected in his volunteer service and annual philanthropic donations, demonstrating his passion for the environment and the betterment of society.

Chibuike Nduneseokwu is currently a postdoctoral researcher at the School of Public Affairs, Zhejiang University, China. He obtained his Ph.D. in Management from Fudan University, China, where his research focused on developing environmental leadership competencies in organizational leaders. Prior to his doctoral studies, he earned a Master of Management degree in Business Administration and Environmental Management from Dalian University of Technology, China. where he received the ‘Excellent International Graduate’ award. He has gained valuable experience through active engagement in various leadership, volunteer, and service activities within student and youth organizations, community associations, and non-profit organizations in Nigeria and China. His passion lies in conducting impactful research that informs and drives leadership practice across multiple sectors. Consequently, his research interests are interdisciplinary, covering a broad spectrum of topics, including Leadership, Leadership Development, Environmental Leadership, Waste Management, Sustainability, And Values.