Conference programme

Coffee & registration

Welcome addresses

ACCTING coordination 

Keynote speech: “Redefining the Public Interest”

Tunç Soyer, Turkish politician, mayor of Izmir from 2019 to 2024, lawyer

Session 1: Research
Learning from the grassroots: Engaging with marginalised groups to co-create a just transition

Moderation: Ayşe Gül Altinay

ACCTING is built on a composite theoretical approach that integrates environmental justice perspectives with a strong focus on multidimensional and intersectional vulnerabilities, recognising the agency of marginalised communities and their role in bringing about change towards sustainability. In this framework, behavioural change is framed as a complex object that cannot be reduced to a purely individual dimension but strongly relates to collective and structural dimensions.

The results of ACCTING document the extent to which the success of Green Deal policies depends on engaging with the wide range of vulnerable communities threatened by environmental crises and the policies designed to address them. By harnessing their diverse knowledge, creativity and energy, it is possible to alleviate the tension between environmental and social goals that is so often at the root of resistance to change and backlash.

In this session, environmental/social tensions, their challenges and their potential in relation to the Green Deal policies will be illustrated through an intersectional lens and the unique perspectives of different communities.

Lunch break

Poster presentations

Session 2: Innovation
From innovation to impact: Leveraging commons for a just transition

Moderation: Jannis Niethammer

ACCTING’s research underscores the impact commons can have on a just transition. Commons are inherently inclusive, and their impact on marginalised populations is real. By fostering shared ownership and agency through participatory decision-making, collaboration, and equitable access to resources, commons empower marginalised groups to tackle structural inequalities and strengthen their resilience and their voice. Therefore, policymakers and communities committed to ensuring an inclusive transition should consider promoting both existing and newly created ones as a sensible investment

In the current context of rising inequalities, environmental degradation and social divide, the need for policy innovations to promote the commons and processes of commoning becomes even more urgent. However, there are still very few examples of policies that effectively promote commons.

In this session, examples of innovative approaches to create new commons, revive existing ones, or support existing commons are highlighted to inspire innovators and policymakers.

Session 3: Action
Advancing behavioural change through partnerships and collaboration

Moderation: Nikos Zaharis

Tackling the complex societal challenges associated with the European Green Deal requires partnerships and collaborations that connect public authorities, civil society, the private sector, academia, and grassroots organisations. These collaborations are essential for fostering systemic change, driving community engagement, and ensuring that the transition is inclusive and equitable.

The ACCTING project has demonstrated the benefits and transformative power of such partnerships in advancing behavioural change towards an inclusive and fair Green Deal. It has also shown that successful partnerships should be systematic and strategic, and based on a shared vision of equity, transparency, and community engagement – with clear communication, flexibility, and a focus on sustainability.

As we look towards advancing long-term behavioural change in the European Green Deal, this last session will reflect on the tangible achievements made through partnerships during the project’s implementation, showcasing how collaboration can effectively tackle systemic inequalities, empower vulnerable communities, and promote sustainable practices. The session will also look forward, providing insights from experts from diverse stakeholder groups into how partnerships can be further developed, strengthened, and integrated into all future initiatives. It will explore how multi-sectoral collaborations can become the norm, ensuring that inclusive, sustainable policies are developed in every project and initiative. These partnerships represent a shift in mindset, putting equity, inclusion, and local perspectives at the heart of every policy and initiative.