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Abstract

Global imperatives underline the need for sustainable development. China, being the largest emitter of CO2 and the biggest energy consumer, has the potential to make substantial contributions to global climate and energy challenges through its sustainability transition. This cumulative dissertation comprises four interlinked papers, presenting a comprehensive exploration of the crucial role that policies play in propelling sustainability transitions in China. Its objective is to shed light on the complex interplay between governance structures, policies, and sustainability outcomes, recognizing the multifaceted nature of sustainability transitions, which span various governance levels, geographies, and dimensions. Within this intricate landscape, the significance of adopting a multilevel and geographical perspective becomes apparent. Moreover, this thesis highlights the importance of a just transition. It argues that significant regional differences exist in sustainability transitions. Many transition processes exclude vulnerable groups or regions. Policies often fail to address these inequities and, in some cases, may worsen them. This dissertation contributes to a deeper comprehension of how policies can guide societies toward a more sustainable and resilient future.