What is Transformation?

Transformation processes entail profound innovation, for instance, in modes of thinking, decision-making, power structures, governance systems—including their institutionality and formal instruments (public policies and regulations)—and changes in predefined values and objectives (Denton et al., 2014; IPCC, 2014). Consequently, they necessitate a set of actions, often irreversible, pertaining to technological changes and fundamental shifts in economies, governance systems, social structures, and behaviors.

Source: Salgado, M. and Aldunce, P. (2020). Theoretical framework of transformation: How we transform to respond to the increasing impacts of climate change. Center for Climate and Resilience Science CR2, (ANID/FONDAP/15110009), 23 pp. Available at www.cr2.cl

Database: Transformation Actions

This database compiles diverse transformative actions observed globally through the review of scientific and non-scientific documents, websites of national and international organizations, interviews, workshops, and other activities.

Lead Researcher

Recommended Readings

Fazey, I. et al. (2020) Transforming knowledge systems for life on Earth: Visions of future systems and how to get there. Energy Research & Social Science, (70), 101724. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.erss.2020.101724

Fazey et al. (2018) Ten essentials for action-oriented and second order energy transitions, transformations and climate change research. Energy Research & Social Science, (40), 54-70. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.erss.2017.11.026

Transformations Conferences

The transformation community responds to the growing recognition that novel approaches are necessary to address climate change and other threats to socio-ecological systems. Over the past eight years, the community has organized conferences in Oslo, Stockholm, Dundee, Santiago, and online in 2021.

2021 Online

2019 Santiago

2017 Dundee

2015 Estocolmo

2013 Oslo