Introduction to Sustainability Transitions Research

Publication date

2026

Authors

Wesche, J.P.ORCID 0000-0002-5946-1659
Hendriks, AbeORCID 0000-0003-2933-5827ISNI 0000000096370671

Editors

Advisors

Supervisors

Document Type

Book
Open Access logo

License

cc_by_nc_nd

Abstract

Sustainability transitions are crucial for addressing our most urgent environmental and societal challenges. This volume offers a clear and accessible introduction to key concepts, theories, and approaches to this rapidly evolving field. Readers will gain insights into the foundational approaches to sustainability transitions research, as well into the impact of power dynamics, politics, diverse actors, and geography on how transitions develop and unfold. Bringing together contributions from over sixty leading and up-and-coming scholars, this volume bridges disciplinary boundaries to examine how sustainable systems emerge and evolve. Designed for both newcomers and experienced professionals, this book serves as a foundational reference for understanding sustainability transitions and navigating the complexities of large-scale transformation. It is essential reading for advanced students and researchers working in sustainability transitions, as well as educators, sustainability policymakers, and practitioners. This title is also available as Open Access on Cambridge Core.

Keywords

innovation systems, just transitions, multi-level perspective, policy mixes, strategic niche management, sustainability transitions, transitions governance, General Social Sciences, General Environmental Science, General Energy, General Economics,Econometrics and Finance

Citation

Wesche, J & Hendriks, A 2026, Introduction to Sustainability Transitions Research. Cambridge University Press Cambridge. https://doi.org/10.1017/9781009437318