Abstract

This article examines the critical role of cultural narratives in shaping sustainability practices and environmental consciousness through interdisciplinary humanities research. Cultural narratives—encompassing stories, myths, literature, and collective memory—profoundly influence how societies understand their relationship with the natural world and approach environmental challenges. This study synthesizes findings from literary studies, anthropology, philosophy, and cultural studies to demonstrate how traditional and contemporary narratives both hinder and facilitate sustainable development. Through analysis of indigenous storytelling traditions, environmental literature, media representations, and digital narratives, we reveal that cultural stories serve as powerful mechanisms for transmitting ecological knowledge, shaping environmental values, and motivating collective action. The research identifies key narrative patterns that promote sustainability, including interconnectedness themes, intergenerational responsibility, and biocentric worldviews. Conversely, dominant Western narratives of progress, consumption, and human dominance over nature are shown to perpetuate unsustainable practices. Our findings suggest that transforming cultural narratives is essential for achieving meaningful sustainability transitions, requiring collaborative efforts between humanities scholars, environmental advocates, and policymakers to develop and disseminate new stories that inspire sustainable living.