2.2 Human Capital Human capital refers to the knowledge, skills, and abilities possessed by individuals that contribute to
their productive capacity
[10]
. It encompasses both formal education and training as well as experiential learning
and practical skills
[11]
. The concept of human capital has been extensively studied in the fields of economics,
human resource management, and education, highlighting its role in economic growth and organizational per-
formance
[12]
.
In the context of environmental sustainability, human capital plays a crucial role in promoting and im-
plementing sustainable practices. It involves individuals who possess the necessary knowledge, skills, and
motivation to contribute to sustainable development goals
[13]
. Studies have shown that investments in human
capital, such as education and training programs focused on sustainability, can enhance the capacity of individ-
uals to engage in sustainable practices and drive innovation
[14]
.
The literature also recognizes the importance of interdisciplinary skills and knowledge in addressing com-
plex environmental challenges. Effective sustainable development requires individuals who can navigate di-
verse fields, collaborate across disciplines, and understand the interconnectedness of social, economic, and
environmental systems
[15]
. Therefore, fostering interdisciplinary education and promoting lifelong learning are
critical for developing human capital capable of contributing to environmental sustainability.
Despite the relevance of human capital to environmental sustainability, there is a gap in understanding
the specific skills, knowledge, and attributes that contribute to effective green development initiatives
[16]
. Fur-
thermore, limited research has examined the strategies and interventions that can maximize the potential of
human capital in achieving environmental sustainability goals
[17]
. This study aims to address these gaps by in-
vestigating the current state of human capital development in the context of green development and identifying
strategies to unleash its potential.