On 8–12 September, the 24th International Conference of the Social Responsibility Research Network (SRRNet) on Corporate Social Responsibility and Sustainability took place in Cluj-Napoca, Romania. The Lithuanian Centre for Social Sciences was represented by Dr Rita Lankauskienė, a researcher at the Institute of Economics and Rural Development and an active member of the SRRNet community since 2009.
This year’s conference placed particular emphasis on the challenges of social responsibility and sustainable development in times of uncertainty and rapid economic, technological and environmental change. The international event brought together more than 90 researchers and practitioners from 22 countries across all continents to exchange knowledge and discuss social responsibility, sustainability, resilience, the circular economy, and emerging models of responsible economic activity.
Dr Rita Lankauskienė was actively involved in a range of academic activities throughout the conference. She participated in the plenary “Meet the Editors” discussion, chaired one of the conference’s scientific sessions, took part in interactive workshops, and presented the results of her research.
Her presentation, “From Sustainability to Symbiosis: Off-Grid Farming, Circular Livelihoods, and Regenerative CSR Practices,” explored the Portugal It Is initiative – an off-grid homestead established by Lithuanian emigrants in rural Portugal – and examined how alternative ways of living and farming can contribute to sustainable development, ecological regeneration, and greater resilience. The research develops the concept of symbiotic livelihoods, highlighting ecological stewardship, adaptive learning, community relationships, and human–nature interdependence.
Participation in the SRRNet conference provided an important opportunity not only to present research conducted at the Lithuanian Centre for Social Sciences to the international academic community, but also to engage in international scholarly discussions, exchange knowledge and experience, establish new professional connections, and explore opportunities for future research collaboration.
More information: Dr. Rita Lankauskienė, el.p. rita.lankauskiene@ekvi.lt