Geographies of transition—From topical concerns to theoretical engagement: A comment on the transitions research agenda

Abstract

This viewpoint takes stock with the 'geography of sustainability transitions' (GOST) as it is presented in the transitions research agenda. GOST has been a relatively recent addition to transition theorizing, addressing the need for greater sensitivity and attention to the scales, spatialities, and context-specific factors that shape transitions. In our view, the agenda represents a rather narrow perspective on GOST, which is geared to two empirical themes, namely urban transitions and transitions in developing countries. While these are relevant and topical issues, the section lacks sufficient acknowledgement of the increasing engagement of geographers with transitions studies and the theoretical approaches they have brought to bear on the field. This short commentary thus aims at complementing the agenda paper by outlining a theoretical research agenda that is emerging in this field, framed around the conceptualization of scales, places and spaces in which transitions unfold.

The Role of Territorially Embedded Innovation Ecosystems Accelerating Sustainability Transformations: A Case Study of the Transformation to Organic Wine Production in Tuscany (Italy)

“…The case of Panzano highlights the importance of place-based approaches to the study of sustainability transformations [14,15]. Innovation ecosystems, understood through this place-making lens, could potentially be a powerful mechanism for accelerating transformations.…”

“…The literature has significantly contributed to our understanding of enabling factors supporting transformations and the role of agency. However, it has also received critiques, particularly from economic geographers, on the lack of attention to how innovative ecosystems embedded in particular territories, shape the speed and direction of transformations [14][15][16].…”

“…Grillitch and Sotarauta suggest that different forms of agency can shape the opportunity space for transformation: entrepreneurial, institutional, and place-based. Regarding the latter, a strong sense of place [14] place frames [15] or place leadership [21] as a shared understanding of the identity of a place, and a shared vision of what that place might become, is crucial for transformations. Ecosystems, understood through this place-making lens, could potentially be a powerful mechanism for accelerating transformations.…”

Transformative Outcomes: Assessing and Reorienting Experimentation with Transformative Innovation Policy

“…Fourth, transformative outcomes unfold not only over time, but also spatially. Here, the literature on the geography of transitions is most relevant (Dignum et al;Binz et al, 2020). Spatial differences and place-based conditions play a crucial role in enabling or disabling transformational processes (Hansen and Coenen, 2015).…”

Cleantech as a key enabler of sustainable development

“…The role of informal institutions may be even more pertinent to decision-making in less developed countries that lack formal institutions, especially if informal institutions are used as substitutes for these (Meagher, 2007;Steer and Sen, 2010). As there is a lack of studies analysing renewable energy implementation in developing and emerging economies while using concepts such as MLPs, further research is needed into applying these methodologies to gain a better understanding of transition processes in these countries (Binz et al, 2020). A special focus on informal institutions may be a promising approach for understanding the dispersion of cleantech more thoroughly within this context.…”