Sustainability Transitions Research: An Introduction

Abstract

Sustainability transitions research explores how societies transform socio-technical systems towards evolving sustainability goals. This chapter introduces key concepts, development, and significance of this interdisciplinary field. We define sustainability transitions through three core components: socio-technical systems combining technology and social structures, transition processes as multi-dimensional shifts over long timespans, and the evolving, contested nature of sustainability goals. Since its 1990s origins, the field has expanded to include diverse theoretical frameworks and methods. While established frameworks offer valuable tools, emerging research on spatial dimensions, power dynamics, and methodological diversification is crucial for addressing contemporary challenges. This chapter lays the foundation for the handbook, previewing key debates and themes explored in subsequent chapters on theoretical frameworks, transition dynamics, methodologies, and future research directions.