The Role of Incumbent Actors in Sustainability Transitions: A Case of LITHUANIA

Abstract

To explore what roles incumbent actors take in sustainability transitions, this paper investigates the current situation in the scientific literature, which reveals a shift from opponents to promoters and the case of a post-Soviet transitioning economy that is exemplified by examining five sustainability-oriented incumbent actors in Lithuania. A single case study design is selected as a methodological approach, illustrated by empirical data from interviews and secondary sources (corporate websites and sustainability reports). These examples provide insights on the initiatives the organisations that are already interested in sustainability take to promote sustainability ideas and be active members of the transition themselves, supporting the contemporary view of incumbents as agents of sustainable transitions.

Promises and Pitfalls of Bioenergy with Carbon Capture and Storage : Actors' Perspectives, Challenges, and Mitigation Deterrence in Sweden

“…Therefore, we saw an opportunity to study these actors to make a research contribution on the challenges for BECCS from the perspectives of these "users." In addition, until recent years, incumbent industry actors were not often studied in sustainability transitions literature, even though powerful industry actors can contribute to sustainability transitions (Ramanauskaitė, 2021). For example, powerful industry incumbent actors often uphold existing regimes, but they can also strategically incorporate new innovations and are relevant actors in sustainability transitions .…”