The Creative and Cultural Industries towards Sustainability and Recovery

We are delighted to introduce this Special Issue of Sustainability, entitled "The Creative and Cultural Industries: Towards Sustainability and Recovery". During the last several decades, the creative and cultural industries (CCIs) have increasingly been recognized for their role in local, regional, national and supranational economies; as drivers of economic growth, development and regeneration; and for their social and cultural impacts on well- being, place making, inclusion, sustainability, diversity and culture. On the other hand, the COVID-19 crisis has exposed the fragility and precarity of an industry dominated by micro-businesses, freelance and informal work practices and few tangible assets, calling into question the sustainability of economic models based on a high level of precarity in employment practices. This has led to some efforts (undertaken by governments and public bodies) to protect this industry from the pandemic's impact. At the same time, lockdowns have also highlighted the importance of creative activity in maintaining individual well- being and community resilience and the innovative potential of this industry.

In this context, this Special Issue addresses the broader research field of CCIs and its various subsectors, as well as its role in developing pathways towards sustainability, resilience and recovery. The articles featured in this Special Issue offer unique insights, methodologies and empirical evidence that contribute to our understanding of the creative and cultural industries' multifaceted nature.