In 2024, the IPBES Transformative Change Assessment (TCA) Summary for Policy Makers set out a powerful call: to address the underlying causes of biodiversity loss through fundamental, system-wide reconfigurations of human-nature interactions. It outlined visions and theories of transformative change; barriers and challenges for taking action; and strategies and actions for delivering transformative change. While noting that practical pathways and grounded strategies for enacting transformative change remain elusive, contested, and politically fraught, the IPBES TCA provides a framework for action.
This session explores how the overarching objectives, principles, and strategies of the IPBES TCA can be put into action—examining emerging practices, partnerships, governance innovations, and knowledge systems that support systemic shifts toward just and sustainable futures for nature and people. Contributors should include specific reference to the IPBES TCA. We welcome practice and research examples, covering topics including, but not limited to:
● The underlying causes of biodiversity loss and nature’s decline, including disconnection from nature
● What transformative change looks like in practice.
● How different approaches to transformative change seek to address the underlying causes of biodiversity loss.
● How entrenched power structures and institutions can be navigated or reshaped.
● The role of co-production, participation, and diverse knowledge systems (including Indigenous and local knowledge).
● The role of Indigenous peoples in transformative change
● The role of creativity and imagination for transformative change
● Experiences in enacting pathways, strategies and actions for transformative change, including reconnection with nature