Sustainability Transition Framework: An Integrated Conceptualisation of Sustainability Change

Abstract

Responding to calls for climate action, this article develops and introduces a Sustainability Transition Framework (STF), which is a high-level interpretation of the complex dynamics dominating the current historical moment characterised by an aspiration for accelerated climate action and challenges with implementing change. This STF brings together and integrates a set of theories about change which were developed in different disciplines and not commonly discussed at the same time. The four key theories are: (1) sustainability transitions, transition management and related theories which consider the necessary change in sociotechnical regimes; (2) diffusion of innovation theory, which provides a high-level overview of patterns with uptake of innovation; (3) a change curve which explains complex emotional experiences when facing organisational change; and (4) a conceptualisation of the style cycle, which is commonly used in the history of art and architecture. These are visually depicted and integrated into a novel STF diagram. The STF presents one of the most comprehensive integrations of currently available knowledge on how change happens, which is essential for accelerated climate action. The STF helps understand individual or social group experiences. Through an improved understanding of the sustainability transition, the STF empowers climate action.