Using Social Media to Engage the Public in Sustainable Development Initiatives

Abstract

The issue of sustainable development arose in 1987 as a concern for the present and future of all countries worldwide, serving as a means to meet current needs and ensure those of future generations. The concept of sustainable development combines economic, social, and environmental spheres as a foundation—a triad for shaping life on Earth. There are many tools for forming sustainable development. One of them is the work of public initiatives (organizations), but they also require certain conditions for their existence. Given the significant importance of technologization and digitalization, the authors of the study analyze "social media" as a tool for engaging public initiatives in sustainable development. The article separately examines the functions and benefits of sustainable development, the types and functions of social media, and the risks and challenges for both areas. The study employs comparative-historical, hermeneutic, and deductive methods. At the end of the study, the authors conclude that social media is the voice of public organizations, offering an opportunity to spread their work, conduct public education, and find like-minded individuals. The authors also emphasize the importance of education and upbringing of citizens, as this influences critical thinking in consuming information, the desire to participate in social life, and the responsible use of sustainable development tools.