The Multi-Pattern Approach for Systematic Analysis of Transition Pathways

Fjalar J. De Haan and Briony C. Rogers
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Fjalar J. De Haan: Melbourne School of Design, Faculty of Architecture, Building and Planning, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC 3010, Australia
Briony C. Rogers: School of Social Sciences, Faculty of Arts, Monash University, Clayton, VIC 3800, Australia

Sustainability, 2019, vol. 11, issue 2, 1-30

Abstract: Pathways have become a central notion in various areas of research, amongst which are the studies of transitions to sustainability. Though various typologies and concepts are available, a framework for systematic analysis of transition pathways is lacking. We present the Multi-Pattern Approach (MPA) to fill this lacuna and provide a step-by-step manual for its application. The MPA addresses a range of traditional challenges of transitions’ pathway analysis, such as temporal and functional system demarcation and the unravelling of complex, interrelated systemic storylines. The approach provides an oft-called for rigour which allows a diagrammatic and formulaic representation of transitions’ pathways. Because of these qualities, the approach allows systematic cross-case comparison and provides a bridge between narrative-based and computational transitions research. The approach is demonstrated with an in-depth empirical case study of water management in Melbourne, Australia over the last 180 years. The article first presents a high-level mapping of the system’s evolution over time and a detailed analysis of the uptake and phasing out of specific servicing technologies and practices.

Keywords: sustainability transitions; pathways; multi-pattern approach; urban water; analysis; modelling (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: O13 Q Q0 Q2 Q3 Q5 Q56 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2019
References: View references in EconPapers View complete reference list from CitEc
Citations: View citations in EconPapers (3)

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