E Integrating Ecofeminism and Panarchy: Transforming Management Theory for Sustainable Environmental Governance in Libya

Abstract

This study critically examines the role of management theory and practice in exacerbating environmental crises within the Anthropocene epoch, explicitly focusing on Libya’s environmental challenges, including oil pollution, water scarcity, and desertification. By integrating ecofeminist perspectives, the research addresses the interconnected oppression of women and environmental degradation, highlighting the pivotal contributions of women in sustainable resource management and community resilience. A comprehensive conceptual review methodology was employed, synthesising literature from peer-reviewed journals, books, and recent studies (2020-2024) to expand upon Burrell & Morgan’s (1979) paradigm differentiation. The analysis reveals that traditional management paradigms, characterised by anthropocentric and extractive practices, fail to account for the complex, multi-scalar interactions inherent in Libya’s socio-environmental systems. Instead, adopting a panarchic framework alongside ecofeminism offers a more inclusive and resilient approach to environmental governance. Findings indicate that incorporating gender-sensitive and ecocentric principles into management theories enhances organisational adaptability and sustainability, particularly in Libya, where women are crucial in grassroots environmental initiatives and community-based conservation efforts. This research contributes to the literature by proposing a novel ecosystemic panarchy paradigm that bridges management theory with ecological and gender considerations, advocating a systemic shift towards sustainable and equitable environmental practices. Future research should explore actionable strategies for operationalising ecosystemic panarchy and further investigate the integration of ecofeminist principles in diverse socio-cultural settings to foster global environmental resilience.