From terminating to transforming: The role of phase-out in sustainability transitions
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Author / Producer
Date
2021-12
Publication Type
Journal Article
ETH Bibliography
yes
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Abstract
Phase-out is rapidly gaining traction as a central part of practical efforts to address sustainability challenges. However, the way it has been conceived of in policy debates and some academic work is problematic in that it (1) tends to be narrowly focused on substitution; (2) underexposes the bi-directional relationship between phase-outs and innovation; and (3) pays insufficient attention to political challenges. To fully reap the potential of phase-out in sustainability transitions, we call for a more integrative body of scholarship. We identify three important avenues to advance this agenda: First, shifting the unit of analysis to socio-technical systems and the reconfiguration of entire regimes will help to elucidate the multiple logics underlying phase-outs. Second, deepening insights on the timing and interaction between phase-out and innovation will unveil the potential of phase-outs in accelerating transitions. Finally, engaging with issues of power, political legitimacy, and equity is required to mitigate political challenges.
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Publication status
published
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Book title
Journal / series
Volume
41
Pages / Article No.
27 - 31
Publisher
Elsevier
Event
Edition / version
Methods
Software
Geographic location
Date collected
Date created
Subject
Phase-out; Regime destabilization; Systems change; Sustainability transition policy; Transition governance; Transition politics
Organisational unit
03695 - Hoffmann, Volker / Hoffmann, Volker