Are we practicing what we preach? Place-based publications: a provocation and proposal. Embracing Place-Based Knowledge for Sustainability Transformations
By: Samuel Wearne
Abstract:
In his insightful article, Samuel Wearne critiques the current academic publishing model in sustainability science, highlighting its limitations in fostering transformative, contextually nuanced, and democratically engaged sustainability practices. He proposes a shift towards regionally scaled, place-based publications as a strategic intervention to empower diverse and localized knowledge systems.
Introduction:
Wearne’s article, stemming from discussions at the 2017 Transformations to Sustainability Conference, addresses the growing discontent with the dominant knowledge systems in sustainability science. He argues that these systems, often characterized by a preference for abstract, universal knowledge, marginalize local and contextual insights, particularly those from non-Western perspectives.
Key Insights:
- Power Dynamics in Publishing: Wearne observes that mainstream academic publishing, with its focus on international, peer-reviewed journals, inherently favors knowledge from the Global North and English-speaking academics. This system perpetuates power imbalances and overlooks the value of diverse, place-based knowledge.
- Need for Transformative Innovations: To achieve sustainable futures, Wearne suggests that transformative innovations in academic practices, particularly publishing, are crucial. He questions whether current practices truly reflect the transformative changes advocated in sustainability science.
- Proposal for Regional Publications: Wearne proposes the development of regionally scaled, place-based publications. These journals would focus on research and policies pertinent to specific regions, encouraging a more democratic and inclusive approach to knowledge co-production.
Discussion:
- Local Transformative Impact: Wearne envisions these regional journals as platforms for various stakeholders to engage in transdisciplinary research relevant to their locales. This approach could influence local governance and policy-making, enhancing community participation and knowledge exchange.
- Systemic Transformation: On a broader scale, a network of regional publications could contribute to a more diverse and resilient global knowledge system. This diversity would enrich comparative research and support more contextually relevant sustainability practices.
- Challenges and Considerations: Wearne acknowledges potential risks, such as the co-optation of alternative knowledge systems and the need for these publications to be genuinely impactful and consistent with their transformative aspirations.
Conclusion:
Wearne’s article is a provocative call to action for the academic community, particularly in sustainability science. It challenges existing publishing norms and advocates for a systemic shift towards place-based publications. This approach, he argues, could align academic practices more closely with the principles of sustainability transformations, fostering a more equitable and contextually responsive knowledge system.
