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- Unveiling the plurality of visions for the ecological transition in EuropePublication . Alves, Fátima; Vidal, Diogo Guedes; Freitas, Helenaemphasising how differing values, economic interests, cultural models, and social positions influence perceptions of transition. The widespread dissemination of this concept without considering different viewpoints and limitations may undermine collective efforts to achieve it. For this purpose, we conducted 45 interviews with politicians, scientists, non-governmental organisations, representatives from economic groups, and citizens in the context of the H2020 European project "PHOENIX". The results demonstrate the diversity of perspectives on ecological transition and show that pro-ecological actions are heavily influenced by institutional, political, and financial frameworks rather than being solely personal preferences. The lack of support from institutions that serve as role models in this ecological transition undermined community attempts to achieve it, as well as the apparent contradiction between comfort and living a more frugal lifestyle. To successfully engage people in this transition, it is vital to push for legislation that prioritises environmental goals over corporate profit, promotes engagement with nature from a young age, and overcomes financial barriers by offering incentives and support for sustainable choices. We argue that in order to move beyond a technocratic approach and towards an inclusive and socio-politically engaging transition, future policies must recognise and overcome these structural constraints.
- Recognising and valuing the cultural significance of biodiversity in coastal marine territories through plural knowledges systems: advancing the mission of the intercultural University of the PeoplesPublication . Alves, Fátima; Vidal, Diogo Guedes; Rosa, Rosário; Freitas, Helena; Castro, HermanoContemporary societies are rich in social, cultural, epistemological, and biophysical diversity, occupying territories that call for recognition and a voice. This recognition is crucial for understanding the social, cultural, and political factors that drive environmental degradation and exacerbate climate change impacts. The Intercultural University of Peoples (IUP) is in the process of being established in Brazil to address this need, leading to the development of the action research project "Promoting the Cultural Value of Biodiversity and Sustainability in Coastal Marine Territories". This project emphasises the value of socio-biodiversity through local knowledges, especially that of traditional communities. Our goal is to develop tailored policies and programmes that support sustainability, health, and the rights of traditional communities, while aligning with IUP’s mission. A key part of our approach is fostering a participatory ethos in coastal communities to drive sociobiodiversity conservation and climate action. Through this initiative, we aim to contribute to sustainable development grounded in the values and knowledges of local populations and to further the mission of IUP.
- Natures instead of nature—plural perceptions and representations of nature and its challenges for ecological transition: a systematic review of the scientific productionPublication . Vidal, Diogo Guedes; Alves, Fátima; Valentim, Cristina Sá; Freitas, HelenaBackground Recognizing nature and the environment as sociocultural constructions is critical to enhancing a transformational ecological change. This involves understanding their diverse sociocultural meanings and societal approaches and how these understandings affect equitable ecological transitions. We reviewed empirical studies and essays, categorizing 161 studies into three main categories: opposition, domination, and interdependencies, reflecting varying knowledge, power dynamics, cultures, and contexts. These studies aim to uncover how societies conceptualize, explain, and engage with nature and the environment, shaping society–nature relationships and influencing ecological transitions. Results This study underscores the diverse perceptions and representations of nature, from a controllable resource to an integrated web of life. Three main categories emerged: (i) nature against society, in a logic of opposition; (ii) nature subordinated to society, in a logic of domination, although integrated into society; and (iii) nature united with society, in a logic of interdependence. Thus, this study advocates discussing “natures” as sociocultural constructs, highlighting the plurality of social perceptions and representations, which can inform policies and challenge socio-political and socio-economic systems. Conclusions This review may pave the way to, first, give visibility and value that diversity and plurality as an instrument that can enrich policies and defy socio-political and socio-economic systems to change and, second, identify the main drivers and resistances that the implementation of an ecological transformation change may face in different sociocultural contexts.