Observing sustainability through the mindfulness lens: a conceptual framework based on a bibliometric review analysis

Barbir, Jelena, Baars, Caterina ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0003-3879-9148, Eustachio, João H. P. P., Sharifi, Ayyoob, Demarzo, Marcelo and Leal Filho, Walter ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-1241-5225 (2025) Observing sustainability through the mindfulness lens: a conceptual framework based on a bibliometric review analysis. Sustainability Science, 20 (1). pp. 251-267. ISSN 1862-4057

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Abstract

To shift human behaviour towards sustainability, a complete comprehension of the approaches that lead to it is required. This study aims to review potential connections between the mindfulness state and trait and changes in human behaviour toward sustainability. Using bibliometric analysis as an innovative approach in this field, combined with an expert-driven literature review, the research builds on previous works regarding sustainability and mindfulness and fosters the research field by exploring six thematic clusters, each containing a set of specific mediators that could bridge this connection. To illustrate the relationship between mindfulness and sustainable development, a framework was developed, illustrating how mindfulness-based skills could positively influence these mediators and which dimensions of sustainable development could be further impacted by it. Moreover, a mindfulness program focused on sustainability and planetary health may be an innovative way to develop competencies related to the variables identified as mediators.