In this paper, we investigate the transition to clean energy technologies in the Boston area, as perceived through the lens of strategic niche management. The main goal of the study was to assess the role of policy in fostering/hindering the development of the clean energy niche and the complete deployment of clean energy technologies in this area. Using argumentative discourse analysis, our research showed that the clean energy niche in the Boston area is generally perceived as strong and dynamic. However, the public de-legitimizing narrative identified gaps at the policy level that include, among others, the limited engagement of the local and federal government in breaking through well-established practices and regulatory frameworks, funding, and infrastructure. These gaps are likely to delay the market uptake of clean energies in this area.

The goal of this paper is to investigate the transition towards a bio-based economy as part of a broader sustainable transition in Europe. To analyse the challenges and opportunities associated with the bio-based economy, we applied the Strategic Niche Management approach to investigate the drivers that boost the emergence of the bio-based economy, the factors hindering it, as well as institutional changes which are at the base of the socio-technological transition. Although considered as just one piece of the sustainability puzzle, the bio-based economy behaves as a socio-technical system on its own, providing valuable hints on systemic transitions.

This paper aims at increasing our understanding of the role of space dimensions in niche evolution dynamics. To accomplish this goal, an agent-based model is developed, locating agents in geographical space. The model is then used to show how local niches built on geographical proximity perform differently from global niches built on relative proximity, in terms of the timing of niche creation, the velocity of niche maturation, average profit, environmental uncertainty and knowledge exchange. It concludes that the spatial dimension of niches should be considered in the development of policies to promote sustainable transitions.

The rail sector, with its capacity to drive intermodal integration, is well-positioned to lead the transition toward scalable and sustainable transport solutions across Europe in connection with other transport modes and sectors. Despite broad recognition of the importance of biodiversity-sensitive infrastructure in national and international frameworks, implementation remains limited [3]. Key barriers include fragmented regulatory frameworks, insufficient cross-sectoral coordination, and the inadequate incorporation of biodiversity considerations into infrastructure planning, construction and operation as highlighted by initiatives such as the BISON project. In response, this study—conducted within the EU-Rail SYMBIOSIS project—analyses the societal impacts, regulatory challenges, and interdependencies between rail and energy infrastructure in relation to biodiversity and climate objectives. Using a robust methodology based on literature review and stakeholder consultation, an inclusive framework is being developed to improve environmental and cumulative impact assessments and enhance environmental evaluation procedures across the infrastructure life cycle. The work also examines the alignment of EU policies with international environmental goals and investigates the consequences of the Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive on biodiversity matters’ governance and accountability. Evidence-based recommendations are formulated to integrate biodiversity and climate priorities into procurement practices and regulatory mechanisms. The outcomes aim to support a more resilient, integrated, environmentally and socially responsible approach to transport infrastructure planning and implementation across Europe.