Ana-Maria and Alexandra from MKBT: make better attended the Regional Studies Association Annual Conference in Florence to present their findings within BOLSTER and share insights on Prahova and other six carbon-intensive regions undergoing transition. More than 700 researchers, practitioners, and policymakers were gathered under the broad theme of “Global Challenges, Regional Collaboration and the Role of Places”.
In MKBT presentation, it was discussed the connection between existing transition narratives, meaning-making, and the sense of agency in Romania’s just transition, focusing on empowering people and local communities. BOLSTER and MKBT study, based on nearly two years of working with Prahova communities, explored their experiences of marginalization in the just transition process, their understanding of the concept, and their visions for Prahova’s future. Together, BOLSTER developed and are now testing participatory practices and governance structures to support them in shaping this vision.
All in all, our findings show that narratives and meaning-making processes of local communities are closely tied to their sense of agency and attitudes towards action. A key leverage point might be ensuring that those directly affected understand the change and the stakes, enabling them to become active stakeholders. Education and climate literacy are crucial for this, while building civil society and fostering community engagement is essential for transforming these regions. We always arrive at the same realization: there are no quick and easy fixes—civic engagement requires continuous support and development over the long term.
We were very happy to reconnect with the researchers from our sister project (DUST) and discover new links and meanings in shaping a more just transition in Europe.
