SDG editorial: improving life on planet earth – a call to action for service research to achieve the sustainable development goals (SDGs)

Abstract

Purpose: This editorial aims to organise the 17 United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) into seven ServCollab service research themes to provide a way forward for service research that improves human and planetary life. Design/methodology/approach: A conceptual approach is used that draws on observations from the scholarly experience of the editors. Findings: This editorial offers seven research themes for service researchers: services that enable the WELL-BEING of the human species; services that provide OPPORTUNITY for all humans; services that manage RESOURCES for all humans; ECONOMIC services for work and growth for all humans; services from INSTITUTIONS that offer fair and sustainable living for all humans; service ecosystems with the PLANET; and COLLABORATION services for sustainable development partnerships. Practical implications: Service scholars are urged to pursue collaborative research that reduces suffering, improves well-being and enables well-becoming for the sustainability and prosperity of Planet Earth. Originality/value: This editorial provides service scholars with a new framework synthesising the SDGs into research themes that help focus further service research.