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.