Abstract

This study examines the intersection of smart engineering asset management (SEAM) and sustainable development (SD), demonstrating how the implementation of SEAM system activities within organizations contributes to achieving the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. This study adopts a contextual-retroductive case study design methodology, using three Libyan infrastructure system failure events/ phenomenon as focused critical subcases that impact SD. The sub-case analysis consolidates insights from an array of internal and external reports, academic papers, and interviews (informal dialogues) with engineers, senior managers, and UN officials. The research approach specifically investigates the status of SEAM system activities within the selected subcases to address systemic sustainability challenges. Critical gaps in Libya’s organizational SEAM systems and deficiencies in practices are identified, directly undermining infrastructure resilience, SD progress, and exacerbating disaster impacts. The study concludes that SEAM is a strategic enabler—not merely a technical tool—for achieving SD and recommends the adaptation of SEAM frameworks to align organizational practices with global sustainability agendas.

Key words: Smart engineering asset management; Sustainable development; Reliable assets; Life cycle management; Natural disaster; Resilient infrastructure