Towards a framework for assessing niches’ potential contribution to emissions reduction

Panel: 8. Dynamics of consumption

This is a peer-reviewed paper.

Author:
Noam Bergman, University of Sussex, United Kingdom

Abstract

We report on work towards a framework for assessing the potential of innovative niches to contribute to sustainability goals and specifically to greenhouse gas emission reductions. If a variety of sustainability-oriented niches are to be supported in different ways, including financial support, regulation and other methods, it is important to assess which niches are most likely to grow and make a significant contribution towards sustainability goals, and under what circumstances. However, it is difficult to assess the potential of different niches and compare them to each other, especially when considering niches which are not technology focused and have no obvious quantitative and measurable parameters. These social innovation niches are neither as well supported nor as well analysed as technology focused niches. Their benefits are often indirect and diffuse, leading to hesitation in political support and investment. Nonetheless they can contribute much to sustainability. We look at case study niches, from technology focused to socially radical, using a combination of fieldwork (interviews) and desk study (literature) and analyse their potential contribution to sustainability including their drivers and barriers, what type of support could realise their potential, and how they might change as they grow. We start with three UK-based case studies, which were chosen to be as different as possible from each other: a domestic energy technology niche (heat pumps), a mobility niche including new social practices around existing technology (car clubs) and a radical social-change niche (the Camp for Climate Action). We use concepts from transition theory and strategic niche management in our analysis. Ultimately, we aim to produce a framework aimed at classifying niches and assessing their potential to increase sustainability and reduce carbon emissions under different circumstances and policy environments.