Transition Management – an alternative model of Environmental Governance

In today’s world, there is a need for changing from conventional sources towards using more sustainable solutions. Any change from the established order is difficult, people are apprehensive and therefore for the change towards cleaner energy solutions, an approach called Transition Management is of use.

The model of transition management was developed by Rotmans and Kemp. Four basic rules are noteworthy, these are-

• Careful not to get locked into sub-optimal solutions
• Embed transition policy into existing decision making frameworks and legitimize transition management
• Take the long view of a dynamic mechanism of change
• Engage in multi level coordination

Transition management approach takes into account that inequalities are likelier to increase in such scenarios and it aims to keep such inequalities to a minimum. A transition is successful when it is least intrusive and ensures a smoother change. It does not have to consider forced change but suitably allow a transition to alternative energy sources. It will happen only when the management is ready to adopt a different, more process oriented philosophy.

There is no single best approach or tailor model which is likely to be successful for all. So, the best case scenario is to explore all options and then determine which is the best one according to indigenous needs and available resources. Transition management should be accepted at the political level and long term goals should guide policy decisions rather than simply short term concerns.

Diversity is a positive benefit and can help in transition management towards ensuring sustainability. Diversity is a source of learning and a fuel of evolution. Diversity touches our lives in practically all areas such as socio-economic, cultural and technological. Diversity may well serve as a source of learning and a resource base for adaptation and reorganization.

The requirements of sustainability are multiple and interconnected. Looking at it with a narrow base cannot help us to arrive at optimal solutions. Sustainability is about long term integration which can provide mutually supportive benefits to all. Thus, Transition Management is one of the approaches to successfully achieve sustainable growth.

Read more on Transition Management here