Abstract:
This talk outlines a transdisciplinary approach to sustainability in a world facing environmental, social, and economic challenges. Using Canada as a case study, it highlights the importance of integrating Indigenous knowledge. It emphasizes the roles of science communication, policy training, and transformative scenario planning in addressing climate change and fostering sustainable development.

Summary of Conversations

The discussion centered on bridging sustainability and society through transformative scenario planning in the face of climate change. It highlighted the distinction between natural and imagined realities, arguing that while natural realities are governed by immutable laws, imagined realities, such as economies and social structures, are shaped by collective beliefs and narratives. The conversation emphasized that overcoming climate challenges requires addressing both technological and social barriers, as the lack of imagination and effective communication often impede progress more than the absence of viable technologies. Transformative scenario planning, involving diverse groups in creating future narratives, was presented as a tool for navigating uncertainty and fostering hope. The South African example was given as an example of success of implementation of those plans. The presentation ended with a call for critical thinking and active engagement in shaping our collective future, rather than passive acceptance of inevitable outcomes.

Take Away Messages/ Current Status of Challenges

• The primary impediment to sustainable solutions isn’t technological limitations but a deficit in imagination and interdisciplinary communication.
• Climate challenges are exacerbated by ‘wicked problems’ that defy simple solutions and are interconnected with other societal issues.
• Transformative scenario planning is a method for exploring potential futures and guiding strategic decision-making in highly uncertain environments.
• Overcoming the ‘politics of inevitability’ is crucial for fostering agency and proactive responses to climate change.
• Engaging diverse perspectives and fostering collaborative dialogue are essential for developing effective and equitable solutions.
• Effective communication is crucial for translating complex sustainability concepts into accessible and actionable strategies for the broader public.
• Maintaining hope and a belief in the possibility of positive change are vital for driving progress towards sustainability goals.
• Blind faith in predetermined outcomes can undermine agency and expose societies to manipulation, emphasizing the need for critical thinking and debate.

Recommendations/Next Steps

• Convene interdisciplinary groups comprising scientists, policymakers, communicators, and community representatives to foster diverse perspectives in scenario planning.
• Dedicate time and resources to facilitate structured debates and discussions on potential future scenarios, encouraging open and critical evaluation of different viewpoints.
• Develop compelling narratives that illustrate the potential for a just and equitable society, fostering public understanding and support for sustainable policies.
• Translate complex concepts, such as energy transitions and energy justice, into accessible and relatable terms to enhance public engagement and participation.
• Utilize transformative scenario planning to inform policy development and communication strategies, ensuring they are adaptable to evolving circumstances.
• Promote active engagement and collaboration among stakeholders to challenge the ‘politics of inevitability’ and foster a sense of collective agency.
• Draw from both successful and unsuccessful case studies of transformative scenario planning to refine methodologies and improve outcomes.
• Encourage continuous learning and adaptation, recognizing that solutions to wicked problems require ongoing evaluation and refinement.