Local energy developments from a spatial and systemic approach are highlighted using examples from a Dutch case study. Developments in energy systems included interconnectedness of contextual factors and systems responses. The need to explore both the contextual factors and systemic aspects are illustrated. …

This paper argues that a first step in finding a sustainable solution for the pressing global issue of ‘waste’, is to consider waste a value attribution rather than a material condition. Doing so means a shift in focus from finding more efficient ways to ‘clean up the mess’ to changing the way in which …

In many countries the Eurasian otter (Lutra lutra) is extinct or numbers are declining; resulting in a classification as “near threatened” on the IUCN’s Red List. In one-third of the European countries, however, conservation efforts, enabled the return of the species or the improvement of weakened populations. …

This report examines the possibilities of using a solar chimney in a highland tropical climate to promote thermal comfort, air‐quality and energy consumption. The study is carried out using modeling and simulation techniques and is conducted at the Federal University of Viçosa in Brazil. A model is …

Swarm planning is a theory and practical approach to deal with uncertain futures. By anticipating scenarios such as a ‘post-carbon’ world and a ‘pre-adaptive’ landscape, it offers an alternative pathway to prepare for medium-term incremental and step changes. The focus is on the regional scale with a …

In this chapter it is argued that fundamental change in society is required, because environmental problems are serious and ask for a factor 10 or more shift in society, the resilience approach (as outlined in Chap. 2 ) implies change to higher resilience systems and current spatial planning is unable …

Although previous research programs have yielded valuable knowledge that can help sugar beet growers to innovate farming processes, actual transfer of this knowledge to the growers so far is lacking. Currents ways of knowledge transfer do not match learning styles, personal traits or the social environment …