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What is protective space? Reconsidering niches in transitions to sustainability

Author

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  • Adrian Smith
  • Rob P.J.M. Raven

Abstract

The transitions literature emphasises the role of niches, defined as a protective space for path-breaking innovations. Surprisingly, the concept of protection has not been systematically interrogated. Our analysis identifies protection as having three functions in wider transition processes: shielding, nurturing and empowerment. Empowerment, understood as processes and mechanisms that contribute to changes in mainstream selection environments in ways favourable to the path-breaking innovation, is considered the least developed in current niche development literature. We argue that these properties need to be understood from an agency perspective, with attention for the politics involved in their realisation. The paper ends with an outlook upon two promising research avenues: 1) the reconstruction of niche development pathways in light of the present framework; 2) analyses of the diverse (political) narratives seeking to empower niches across time and space.

Suggested Citation

  • Adrian Smith & Rob P.J.M. Raven, 2011. "What is protective space? Reconsidering niches in transitions to sustainability," Working Papers 11-05, Eindhoven Center for Innovation Studies, revised Aug 2011.
    • Handle: RePEc:ein:tuecis:1105
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    Cited by:

    1. Birgit Hoinle & Ilka Roose & Himanshu Shekhar, 2021. "Creating Transdisciplinary Teaching Spaces. Cooperation of Universities and Non-University Partners to Design Higher Education for Regional Sustainable Transition," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 13(7), pages 1-21, March.

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