Sustainable Social Development Research Articles

Communication dynamics: Fintech’s role in promoting sustainable cashless transactions

The integration of Fintech is revolutionizing global financial engagement, moving away from traditional payment systems. This study, thus, explores the interaction between communication dynamics, Fintech use, intentions, cashless transactions adoption, financial literacy, personal innovativeness, and socioeconomic development in Pakistan. The study employs a dual methodology, encompassing “PLS-SEM and Probit Model alongside Propensity Score Matching technique.” The survey targeted small business owners and individuals involved in informal sectors, encompassing roles such as fruit and vegetable vendors, small shop owners, taxi drivers, and auto rickshaw operators. A total of 394 responses were analyzed. The findings highlight the facilitating role of individuals’ intentions to use cashless transactions, acting as a mediator through which Fintech use fosters actual behavior. Moreover, the study finds financial literacy and personal innovativeness as critical moderating factors. Adopting cashless transactions emerges as a pathway to enhanced financial inclusion, particularly impactful for small business owners. The achieved financial inclusion has the potential for profound financial inclusion implications, as evidenced by its positive effects on sustainable livelihoods, living conditions, and social development among small business owners and individuals operating within the informal sector.

Exploring the University Social Responsibility Initiatives and Sustainable Development in Malaysia: A Carroll Model Approach

Universities, as catalysts for social change, have significant influence over the societal, cultural, economic, and intellectual domains. They play a vital role in shaping the future and fostering beneficial social transformation. Aiming to explore the implementation and role of University Social Responsibility (USR) initiatives in achieving sustainable development in Malaysia, this research adopted Carroll’s Model as a framework. A qualitative content analysis through a directed approach was performed on the official website of the Top 15 Malaysian Universities in Times Higher Education (THE) Impact Ranking 2023. THE Impact Ranking 2023 is a worldwide ranking that evaluates universities’ commitment to sustainability in four key areas: research, stewardship, outreach, and teaching. The research revealed the upsurge in USR initiatives in Malaysia by public and private universities within the framework of economic, legal, ethical, and philanthropic responsibilities. Equally important, the research discovered that Malaysian universities demonstrate high institutional and policy support to attain sustainable development in Malaysia. Most of the USR programs led by public and private universities are aligned with addressing specific global challenges outlined in the United Nations' 17 Sustainable Development Goals. As a theoretical contribution, the research adds to the literature on the Carroll Model Approach in the context of Malaysian universities. As a practical contribution, the research guides universities, policymakers, and stakeholders on the strategies that foster sustainability practices through USR initiatives.

Wetland Landscape Dynamics and Multi-Functional Assessment of Wuhan City, China

Under the dual pressures of rapid urbanization and intensifying global climate change, China has proposed governance policies aimed at promoting ecological urban construction. Wetland landscapes play a key role in sustaining human and social well-being. As a significant city in the middle reaches of the Yangtze River, Wuhan’s wetland resources play an irreplaceable role in maintaining the regional ecological balance and promoting sustainable economic and social development. However, urbanization poses a severe challenge to the ecological service functions of wetlands. Consequently, in this study, we analyzed the spatial–temporal evolution patterns of the sub-functional systems of carbon sequestration, biodiversity conservation, water yield, and water purification in five wetland types in Wuhan City from 2000 to 2020 by using the CASA model and InVEST model. Then, a wetland multi-functional assessment framework was constructed to quantify the comprehensive multi-function score. It is imperative to unravel the underlying mechanisms driving the changes in wetland functions and to explore the equilibrium point between wetland conservation and urban sustainable development. Our results show that the wetland area of Wuhan City decreased from 5077.33 km2 in 2000 to 4696.60 km2 in 2020, and the wetland multi-functions exhibited significant spatial heterogeneity from 2000 to 2020. Wetland carbon sequestration increased from 0.94 Tg in 2000 to 1.11 Tg in 2020. The wetland habitat quality declined from 0.13 in 2000 to 0.11 in 2020. The water production of the wetlands increased from 5.43 × 109 t in 2000 to 22.59 × 109 t in 2020. The wetland N loss decreased from 55,850.58 t in 2000 to 49,209.93 t in 2020. The highest multi-function score was in paddy fields, which increased from 0.41 ± 0.12 to 0.51 ± 0.12, followed by tidal flats, which increased from 0.39 ± 0.14 to 0.50 ± 0.16, and the lowest was rivers, which also increased from 0.33 ± 0.12 to 0.41 ± 0.14. The multi-function score was closely related to the wetland type and urban development direction over the past two decades, and it was negatively correlated with production and living density, providing new ideas for wetland ecological protection and construction in Wuhan City.

Relevance of the “Polar Index” Project for Sustainable Development of the Russian Sector of the Arctic Zone

Introduction. The following study answers the question whether the “Polar Index” project is a reliable reflection of the development of the Russian Arctic region in the field of sustainable development. Within the framework of this scientific work, the analysis of the general methodology for calculating the "Polar Index" assigned to each of the companies operating in the Russian Arctic was carried out. The analysis made it possible to understand the logic of assigning an organization to one of the three groups, depending on how active its sustainable development policy is.Materials and methods. The materials used in the given article include studies of Russian scientists devoted to sustainable development of the Arctic region, as well as the materials published on the official web-sites of Russian energy companies. In terms of research methodology, the article pays special attention to event analysis aimed at identifying and interpreting key activities and projects that are implemented by Russian companies in the Arctic zone within the framework of sustainable economic, social and environmental development. In order to do this, three Russian energy companies of different levels of participation in the development of the region were selected. Next, for each of these companies, an analysis of its actions and development strategy regarding the Russian segment of the Arctic was carried out.Results of the study. The comparison of the assessment of Russian energy companies’ activities based on the Polar Index and the conclusions regarding the effectiveness of their activities obtained as a result of the event analysis proves that the Polar Index project indeed reflects the effectiveness of the activities of Russian companies in the Arctic region, as well as the degree of their involvement in sustainable development of the polar region in question, with a high degree of reliability.Discussion and conclusion. The research revealed Russian companies, the activities of which to a substantial degree comply with all the three criteria of sustainable development, namely, economic, ecological, and social. That being said, relevant scientific research on the given subject demonstrates that the companies, which managed to achieve the best results in the given sphere, are Rosneft, Norilsky Nikel and Gaspromneft.

Green Supply Chain Technology Innovation and Enterprise Synergy in the Context of Sustainable Development: Challenges and Strategie

This study explores the synergistic development between technological innovation and enterprises in green logistics supply chains from the sustainable development perspective. The study first introduces the latest progress of China's environmental policies and technological innovation and analyses the importance and necessity of green logistics supply chain management. Subsequently, through case studies and theoretical research, this paper discusses the policies and regulations of green supply chain management, collaborative management among enterprises, and the development path of technological innovation. It further analyses the contents of policies and regulations, enterprise collaboration management, and technological innovation in green logistics supply chain management. It proposes strategies and suggestions to solve problems by combining cases and theories. Finally, this study summarises the development status of green logistics supply chain management. It looks forward to future development trends, emphasizing that more enterprises should strengthen cooperation to jointly promote green logistics supply chains, environmental protection, and sustainable economic and social development.

Theology of Development: Addressing Poverty and Inequality in Nigeria and Kenya

To combat poverty and injustice in Nigeria and Kenya, this article examines how religion and development connect. Notwithstanding their abundance of natural resources, both countries struggle with serious socioeconomic issues that compromise human dignity and impede long-term development. The research claims that frameworks for addressing these problems may be effectively provided by theological concepts like social justice, stewardship, and the preferred choice for the poor. The study emphasizes the critical role that Christian organizations play in advancing social justice and sustainable development by looking at the historical backgrounds, faith-based activities, and theological underpinnings in both nations. The results indicate that incorporating religious perspectives into development approaches not only offers workable answers but also improves the moral and ethical aspects of development initiatives in Kenya and Nigeria.

The Levels of Government Environmental Attention and Enterprises’ Green Technological Innovation

This study utilizes data from listed companies on the Shanghai and Shenzhen stock exchanges from 2010 to 2023 and employs text analysis methods to investigate the impact of government environmental concerns on corporate green technology innovation and its underlying impact mechanisms. The empirical findings demonstrate that heightened government environmental concerns significantly foster corporate green technology innovation. This relationship remains robust across a series of sensitivity analyses. The impact mechanism analysis reveals that increased government environmental concern leads to a heightened intensity of environmental regulation, drives the intelligent transformation of enterprises, and enhances the implementation of corporate environmental strategies, collectively contributing to the improvement of corporate green technology innovation capabilities. Furthermore, the heterogeneity analysis indicates that the effect of government environmental concerns is more pronounced in state-owned enterprises, mature enterprises, and industries with lower pollution levels. This study underscores that the government’s intensified focus on environmental issues can effectively promote corporate green technology innovation, thereby promoting sustainable economic and social development and supporting the dual goals of environmental protection and economic growth.

Fostering Sustainable Development Through Social Innovation: The Role of Cultural Values in Entrepreneurial Intentions

Context. The study analyses how cultural values on the entrepreneurial intentions of university students in public and private institutions in Jalisco, Mexico, may lead a path to social innovation, based on the Theory of Planned Behavior. Problem. Despite the growing emphasis on entrepreneurship education, the impact of cultural values on students' entrepreneurial intentions remains unclear. This research explores how autonomy, hierarchy, and egalitarianism shape students' aspirations. Purpose. The research seeks to examine the multidisciplinary nature of cultural values and their relationship with entrepreneurial intentions. It specifically addresses SDGs 4, 8 and 9. Methodology. A quantitative survey was distributed to 1,438 university students in Jalisco, Mexico, during 2023-2024. The data were examined through exploratory factor analysis and linear regression to identify the relationships between cultural values and entrepreneurial intentions. Reliability was assessed using Cronbach's alpha, while validity was established through factor loadings. Theoretical and Practical Findings. Cultural values like integration and mastery positively influence entrepreneurial intentions, while egalitarianism showed a negative impact. These results contribute to the understanding of how cultural contexts shape entrepreneurial behavior, with practical implications for fostering entrepreneurship in educational settings, aligned with the SDGs; leading students´ behavior to a social innovation path. Originality based on a multidisciplinary approach that promotes innovation for sustainable development. This research integrates multidisciplinary perspectives to promote social innovation and sustainable development, highlighting the unique role of cultural values in shaping entrepreneurial intentions. Conclusions and limitations. The study concludes that while cultural values significantly impact entrepreneurial intentions, though the influence varies by dimension. However, as the research focuses on a single region, future studies should explore other cultural contexts to generalize findings.

Empirical study on the relationship between economic growth and implied carbon emissions in Western China's undertaking of international industrial transfer.

In the macro context of global climate change, given the profound challenges that the intensifying greenhouse effect poses to global ecological balance and sustainable economic and social development, the role of foreign direct investment (FDI) is increasingly acknowledged, particularly regarding its dual impact on the environment: while serving as a catalyst for economic growth, it might also exacerbate carbon emissions in host countries. This paper focuses on the panel data of 11 provinces and cities in the western region (excluding Xizang) from 2006 to 2021, calculates the implied carbon of foreign-invested enterprises in the western region, and explores the relationship between the implied carbon of foreign-invested enterprises in the western region and the economic development of the western region. The results indicate that from 2006 to 2021, the implied net carbon value of import and export trade of foreign-invested enterprises in the western region was greater than zero and roughly exhibited an upward trend year by year. FDI has an environmental deficit in terms of carbon emissions in the western region; FDI in the western region has a significant positive effect on the implied carbon emissions in import and export trade; The GDP of the western region has a significant positive effect on the implied carbon emissions of import and export trade. Therefore, this article puts forward corresponding suggestions from five aspects: policy incentives and regulatory constraints, technology research and innovation drive, clean energy development and resource recycling, international cooperation and regional linkage, and public awareness enhancement and cultural advocacy.

The Impact of Romanian Internal Auditors in ESG Reporting and Sustainable Development Goals

The purpose of this study is to determine the impact of an internal auditor’s activities in Romania, through their specific activities, on ESG reporting and sustainable development goals (SDGs). Environmental, social, and governance (ESG) are three criteria by which an organization’s operations are characterized as sustainable, responsible, or ethical. Even though, for business, the SDGs have been called “a 2030 purchase order for business and government action today”, the alignment between environmental, social, and governance performance and sustainable development goals helps practitioners in observing corporate contributions to sustainable growth. This research aims to identify whether internal auditors in Romania are able to contribute to ESG reporting and the achievement of the sustainable development goals through specific objective assurance and advisory activities. Using the questionnaire, the data were collected from professional accountants who carry out internal audit missions. The main findings confirm a strong and directly significant connection between the internal audit’s perception of the management’s view of the SDGs and how the entity can contribute to achieving the SDG objectives. The results also showed a direct and medium-intensity impact of the variables, capturing the important role of internal audits in ESG reporting. Our study showed that internal audits can help with reporting ESG and sustainable development objectives through their activity. However, according to our statistical results, the internal auditors do not offer at all (or rarely offer) objective assurance and counseling related to these subjects. Moreover, it is observed that, in these situations, the management does not have a clear vision and has not taken measures to achieve the sustainable development goals and ESG factors.

Simulating Changes in Ecosystem Carbon Storage and Analyzing Influencing Factors in the Central Zhejiang under the Background of LUCC

Central Zhejiang is the key ecological function area of Zhejiang Province and an important part of the Qiantang River ecological corridor. Conducting simulations of ecosystem carbon storage changes and analyzing influencing factors under land-use changes in this region is of significant importance for achieving the goals of "peak carbon" and "carbon neutrality" at an early stage. This study, based on the land use data of five periods from 1980 to 2020 in central Zhejiang, coupled the GeoSOS-FLUS and the InVEST model to analyze the spatiotemporal changes in carbon storage in the region over time and project for the year 2030. The study also explored the impact of socio-economic and natural factors on changes in carbon storage. The results showed that： ① Between 1980 and 2020, urban construction land in the Zhejiang Central Region increased by 289.91%, with cultivated land and forest land being the main sources, leading to a 3% decrease in ecosystem carbon storage, amounting to 588.88×104 tons. ② High-value areas of carbon storage in the Zhejiang Central Region were concentrated in P'an-an County, Jinyun County, Wuyi County, and other areas. ③ Under the two different scenarios of natural development and ecological protection, carbon storage in the research area was projected to decrease by 1.05% and 0.05%, respectively, by 2030 compared to that in 2020. ④ Natural factors dominated the distribution of carbon storage, but their influence was gradually decreasing over time. The impact of socio-economic factors was increasing, and the combined effect of socio-economic and natural factors far outweighed the influence of a single factor on carbon storage distribution. These findings can serve as a scientific reference and guide for mitigating carbon loss in ecosystems, promoting ecosystem protection, facilitating sustainable social development, and achieving the "dual carbon" goals in Zhejiang and other regions nationwide.

Social Entrepreneurship and Sustainable Development: the Creation of a Digital Platform Dedicated to Resource Sharing: Moroccan Case Study

Objective: The objective of this study is to investigate and analyze the role of digital social entrepreneurship in achieving sustainable development goals, with a deep focus on the creation of a digital platform for resource sharing. Theoretical Framework: The study is based on the concepts of social entrepreneurship and sustainable development, emphasizing their role in addressing social and environmental challenges such as climate change and inequality, while leveraging digitalization to maximize impact. Method: A quantitative study was conducted with 134 participants to examine the impact of digital social entrepreneurship on sustainable development. The data were collected using a structured questionnaire distributed through a non-probability snowball sampling method. Results and Discussion: The results demonstrate how the creation of a resource-sharing platform can exemplify digital social entrepreneurship. By connecting individuals and organizations for the sharing of materials, skills, and knowledge, the platform fosters the sharing economy, reduces waste, and promotes community cooperation. These outcomes contribute to the achievement of various sustainable development goals. Research Implications: The findings provide insights into the practical application of digital platforms in promoting sustainability and social entrepreneurship. They suggest that technology can be effectively harnessed to address global challenge. Originality/Value: This study contributes to the literature by illustrating how digital social entrepreneurship can serve as a powerful tool for sustainable development. Its originality lies in the innovative approach of combining technology with social problem-solving to drive socio-economic and environmental progress.

Assessment of the relationship between mineral extraction in the southern hemisphere and sustainable development

Sustainable mineral policies are needed to achieve environmental and social equity in the global South. This study explores the need to align mineral mining in the global South with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). It studies the impact of mineral mining on sustainability in 29 global South economies from 2000 to 2021. It also conducts robustness analysis and heterogeneity tests to analyze the mediation effect and the impact of the release of SDGs on sustainability. The main conclusions are as follows: (1) Mineral mining has an inhibitory effect on sustainable development and has become a constraint for the achievement of sustainable development goals in the global South; (2) The more mineral-rich a country is, the more serious the adverse impact of mining activities is. The harm of mineral mining to sustainable development is most serious in Africa; (3) Mineral mining leads to an increase in ecological footprint and undermines environmental sustainability, while mineral rents may become a source of funds for clean production, offsetting the adverse effects of mineral mining; (4) The release of SDGs has prompted leaders of various countries to legislate and reform in the field of minerals, helping countries achieve sustainable development goals. The research results provide an effective reference for promoting environmental and social sustainable development in the global South.

Pendamping Literasi Keuangan dan Inovasi Produk Untuk Optimalisasi UMKM Sapu Lidi Melalui Program KKN di Desa Perkebunan Maryke

Community Service (KKN) in Perkebunan Maryke Village, Kutambaru District, Langkat Regency, was carried out by students of the Muhammadiyah University of North Sumatra from 12 to 27 August 2024. This program aims to improve the financial literacy of the community and optimize the potential of the broomstick MSME which is the main source of income for village residents. Through MSME mentoring activities, students conduct value chain analysis to improve production efficiency, product innovation, and more effective marketing strategies. This mentoring aims to increase the competitiveness of MSMEs and shorten distribution channels to a wider market. In addition, the financial literacy program in collaboration with Bank Sumut is also provided through workshops to teach the community, especially the younger generation, about the importance of saving, financial planning, and personal budget management. The results of this activity show an increase in community understanding of financial literacy and MSME management, as well as the creation of new innovations in broomstick products. This activity not only has an impact on increasing residents' income, but also strengthens social cohesion and sustainable village economic development. This program is expected to be a model for community empowerment in other rural areas.

Self-realization as a Driver of Sustainable Social Development: Balancing Individual Goals and Collective Values

Self-realization is integral to the social aspect of sustainable development, as it enables individuals to boost mental health and personal well-being by achieving and enhancing their potential and life goals. This study explores how self-realization functions as a driver for sustainable social development in the face of adversity. The research, which involved 122 adult Ukrainians, utilized written surveys, statistical analysis, qualitative assessment, and ranking to collect data. Despite the persistent threats and crises, Ukrainians exhibit significant motivation and engagement in self-realization across various domains, including professional endeavors, family interactions, and parenting. The wartime environment has introduced new dimensions to self-realization, such as involvement in volunteering and charitable activities. Key areas of self-realization include professional and family roles, which highlight the effectiveness of personal fulfillment. Nonetheless, respondents encounter common challenges, such as procrastination, laziness, and emotional strain. The majority acknowledge the connection between their self-realization and sustainable social development, particularly its social dimensions. While self-actualization is essential for life fulfillment during the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, it necessitates targeted psychological support to tackle individual-specific challenges. Self-actualization remains a vital process for life fulfillment in wartime Ukraine, yet it requires targeted psychological support to address individual challenges. Keywords: self-realization, personality, development, societal sustainable development, social component of societal sustainable development, adult personality, communication

Advancing SDG 16 through political participation on social media: A Comparative Study of Social Capital between South Korea and the United States

The United Nations' Sustainable Development Goal 16 (SDG 16) aims to promote peaceful, inclusive societies and build effective, accountable institutions. Despite the growing influence of online media on political activities in the digital age and the increasing importance of achieving SDG 16 through political participation, there has been a lack of empirical research on this topic. This cross-cultural comparative study investigates the relationships among online communication, social capital, and political participation in South Korea and the United States. Online surveys were conducted in both countries, focusing on people's interest and trust in online communication, types of online social capital (bonding and bridging), and engagement in conventional and unconventional forms of political participation. Our findings underscore the pivotal role of social media as a platform for citizens to voice their political opinions and partake in democratic processes. We discovered a significant correlation between heightened interest and trust in online communication and increased political participation in both countries. This correlation is instrumental in achieving SDG 16.7, which advocates for inclusive and participatory decision-making. This study also highlights the nuanced differences in the relationship between online social capital and political participation. In South Korea, bridging online social capital is associated with unconventional political activities, whereas in the United States, bonding online social capital is linked to these forms of engagement. However, in both countries, participation in presidential elections is associated with bridging online social capital, providing a deeper understanding of the complex dynamics at play. The potential of social media to expand opportunities for citizens to participate in the political process and hold their governments accountable contributes to achieving SDG 16.6, which aims to develop effective, accountable, and transparent institutions. However, the study also serves as a reminder of the challenges posed by online polarization and misinformation. To fully realize the benefits of social media in promoting inclusive and sustainable social development, addressing these issues and fostering healthy online communities are essential.In conclusion, this study underscores the importance of promoting online communication and building robust online communities as key strategies for achieving SDG 16, engaging a wide range of stakeholders in the process of building a more equitable and sustainable future.

CSR and Sustainable Development in India: A Study of Environmental Initiatives by Indian Corporations

This research paper explores the intersection of Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) and sustainable development in India, focusing on environmental initiatives undertaken by Indian corporations. Given the growing significance of CSR in addressing environmental challenges, the study employs a qualitative analysis of various CSR programs across industries, supplemented by quantitative data to evaluate their effectiveness. The findings reveal that while many companies have integrated CSR into their business strategies, significant challenges remain, including regulatory complexities and the need for greater stakeholder engagement. Key results indicate that approximately 70% of Indian corporations have begun adopting Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) criteria, reflecting a shift towards responsible governance. The implications of these findings highlight the critical role of CSR in achieving sustainable development goals and fostering corporate accountability. Furthermore, the paper outlines future directions for CSR in India, emphasizing the importance of digital transformation, climate resilience, and collaborative partnerships. By identifying emerging trends and areas for improvement, this study aims to provide a roadmap for corporations looking to enhance their CSR initiatives and contribute meaningfully to sustainable development in India.

An Interfaith Perspective on Multicultural Education for Sustainable Development Goals (SDGS)

Objective: This study aims to explore the contribution of interfaith perspectives in multicultural education to the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The focus is to develop a deeper understanding of how religious values can strengthen tolerance, social cohesion, and peace among students. Theoretical Framework: This study uses a multicultural educational framework and an interfaith perspective as its theoretical foundation. Multicultural education is seen as an important strategy to promote respect for diversity, while an interfaith perspective contributes fundamental moral values to sustainable social development. Method: A qualitative analysis of content technique is employed in the study to analyze Hadith and Quranic texts and lessons. To find themes and subjects about interfaith dialogue and multicultural education, the texts are methodically classified and categorized. Results and Discussion: This research results in a deeper understanding of best practices and challenges in integrating interfaith perspectives in multicultural education. The results show that the integration of religious values can effectively strengthen understanding and appreciation of diversity, as well as support the creation of an inclusive and harmonious educational environment that contributes to the achievement of the (SDGs). The study also offers practical recommendations for educators and policymakers to improve the implementation of multicultural education based on interfaith values. Research Implications: Policymakers, educators, and interfaith workers should take note of the study's significant ramifications. It provides a framework for multicultural education with a strong religious foundation that may be utilized to develop inclusive lesson plans and teaching techniques. Originality/Value: The interdisciplinary approach of this research, which blends Islamic religious teachings with contemporary educational theories, makes it distinctive. It adds something unique to the continuing conversation about diversity and inclusivity in education by providing an Islamic perspective. The study is important because it has the potential to change educational practices and regulations, which will help different groups have more inclusive and respectful learning environments.

Research on the Path to Enhancing Graduate Education Quality through New Productive Forces

Graduate education is an indispensable part of higher education, playing a crucial role in cultivating top-tier talent, promoting technological advancements, and facilitating social progress. However, it faces severe challenges, including inadequate teaching methods, outdated educational technologies, insufficient interdisciplinary collaboration, inconsistent quality of mentorship, and incomplete evaluation systems. With the rise of new productive forces centered on technological innovation, exploring their application in enhancing the quality of graduate education is a primary concern. This study investigates how to improve the quality of graduate education through new productive force pathways, including curriculum reform, faculty development, the establishment of new R&D platforms, collaboration between industry and academia, educational assessment mechanisms, an international perspective and global competitiveness, intercultural education, and a focus on social responsibility and sustainable development.

Natural resource extraction - Sustainable development relationship and energy productivity moderation in resource-rich countries: A panel Bayesian regression analysis

Social development is essential for improving quality of life, fostering stability, driving economic growth, achieving sustainable goals, enhancing human capital, encouraging civic engagement, building resilience, and fostering innovation, thereby ensuring inclusive, equitable, and sustainable progress. The Social Progress Index (SPI), also known as social development, contains all these features. This study aims to examine the impact of natural resource extraction on social development quadratically using data from 2011 to 2022. The focus of the study is on resource-rich countries. In this study, productive capacity in the energy sector is used as a social development determinant and a natural resource consumption moderator, ensuring sustainability in social development. Analyzing the quadratic relationship allows us to model and understand nonlinear relationships between the predictor and the outcome variable, capturing the effects that change direction or strength at different levels of the predictor. In this study, Bayesian regression is incorporated as an econometric approach. It provides more flexible modelling, incorporates prior knowledge, and offers a full distribution of parameter estimates, leading to better uncertainty quantification and more robust predictions. These estimates confirms a U-shaped natural resource extraction and social development relationship. Energy productive capacities in resource-rich countries not only enhance social development but also ensure the sustainable extraction of natural resources leading to sustainable social development. Population density and biodiversity are incorporated as control variables of the model. The impact of both is positive on social development.