Social Work
Eco Social Work in Community Practice
By Dr. Anvita Verma, Dr. R.K. Tripathi , Edited by Peter Wright
Eco-social work in community practice integrates ecological awareness with social work principles to promote sustainable development and environmental justice within communities. This emerging field recognizes the interconnectedness between human well-being and the natural environment, advocating for holistic approaches to address social and ecological challenges. Eco-social workers engage with communities to build resilience against climate change, reduce environmental degradation, and ensure equitable access to resources such as clean water, air, and green spaces. In community practice, eco-social work emphasizes participatory methods where community members are involved in identifying environmental concerns and co-creating solutions. Initiatives may include urban gardening, community clean-up programs, disaster preparedness, and promoting sustainable livelihoods. Special attention is given to vulnerable populations who are disproportionately affected by environmental hazards, such as low-income groups and indigenous communities. Through advocacy, education, and collaboration with policymakers and environmental organizations, eco-social workers aim to influence systemic change. They help communities adapt to environmental shifts while fostering a sense of stewardship for the planet. Ultimately, eco-social work strives to create environmentally conscious, socially just, and sustainable communities, aligning ecological integrity with human dignity. It represents a vital bridge between environmental sustainability and social equity in contemporary social work practice. Eco-Social Work in Community Practice explores the integration of ecological consciousness into social work to promote environmental justice and sustainable community development. Contents: 1. Introduction, 2. Community Practice, 3. Collective Action and Empowerment in Social Work Practice, 4. The Role of Social Capital in Driving Community Development, 5. Understanding Community Perspectives in Social Work Practice, 6. Social Work and a New Ecological Paradigm, 7. Social Work for Profession Practice, 8. Academic Foundations and Field Applications of Community Social Work, 9. Interdisciplinary Approaches to Community-Based Socio-Economic Development, 10. Community Organization as a Method of Social Work.
About the Authors
Dr. Anvita Verma is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Social Work, University of Lucknow and before it she has served seven years as Assistant Professor in Department of Humanities, SRMU, Lucknow with experience of teaching and research on various aspects of Sustainable Development and Environment. She is post graduate in Social Work with specialization in Health, M. Phill in Social work with research on Sanitation and Hygiene and Ph.D on Interweaving Aspects of Climate Change and Human Beings. She was awarded with four Gold Medals for her meritorious performance in Master of Social Work. She also has working experience with CEE North (Centre for Environment Education), Consultancy work in UPSAC (Uttar Pradesh AIDS Control Society). Dr. R.K. Tripathi is an accomplished academic and development professional, currently serving as an Assistant Professor in the Department of Social Work at the University of Lucknow. With a strong foundation in social work, he has dedicated his career to both academia and the social development sector. His expertise spans community development and Child rights, and he actively contributes to research and knowledge dissemination in these areas. Before transitioning to academia, Dr. Tripathi amassed extensive experience in the development (NGO) sector, working with national and international organizations such as Ipas Development Foundation, UNICEF, and UPVHA. In these roles, he served as a Consultant and Social Activist, spearheading initiatives in public health, education, and community empowerment. His work focused on designing and implementing programs that address pressing social issues, advocating for marginalized communities, and strengthening policy frameworks to create sustainable social change. Dr. Tripathi holds a postgraduate degree in Social Work and has earned the prestigious Post-Doctoral Fellowship (PDF) from the Indian Council of Social Science Research (ICSSR), New Delhi. His research interests include social justice, protection of child rights, and capacity building, and he has contributed to numerous publications, conferences, and academic forums. With his interdisciplinary approach and commitment to fostering societal well-being, Dr. Tripathi continues to inspire students and professionals alike in the field of social work.