Seeking conceptual clarity and theoretical coherence in social work scholarship on the environment

Abstract Scholarship on social work and the environment is at a critical juncture: the literature has grown rapidly but remains normatively enthusiastic and theoretically fragmented, circulating largely among the convinced. This article sees the lack of conceptual clarity in this scholarship as a challenge to theoretical consolidation and the development of a sound knowledge base for environmental practice. It examines the core environmental and ecological dimensions undergirding the three main theoretical perspectives on the profession’s responsibility vis a vis the environment: environmental, ecosocial, and green social work. Secondly, it attempts to understand operative concepts used—sustainability and justice—in delineating the goals of environmental and ecological justice and sustainability, and sustainable development. In so doing, it highlights the interchangeable use of these terms of reference and the need for conceptual clarity; asks whether differing ontological positions are reconcilable; and raises questions as to whether theoretical consolidation is possible.