School of Social and Political Science

Background

I am part of the Scottish Graduate School of Social Sciences DTP, funded through the ESRC. My research interests concern the social dynamics of environmental initiatives such as rewilding and nature restoration, as well as our transition towards more just and sustainable societies. I hope to contribute to a growing body of literature that helps identify how we can better move away from unsustainable practices, systems and behaviours.

PhD Title

Just and Sustainable Transitions: An Interdisciplinary Approach to Understanding Behaviour Change In The Cairngorms National Park.

My PhD focuses on the Cairngorms 2030 project, a large scale interdisciplinary initiative that is implementing and supporting 20 projects across the park. These projects focus on nature restoration, health and well-being, transportation and empowering communities, all with the goal on creating more just and sustainable practices and behaviours within the park, as well as helping to achieve the goal of becoming the first National Park to hit Net-Zero. The PhD will observe and support the implementation of the C2030 and analyse its dynamics and impacts. It is hoped that this project will generate new forms of knowledge and practices that help to achieve more sustainable societies and a just transition in Scotland and beyond. Learning will support more nuanced theoretical and conceptual approaches to sustainability transitions as well as practical insights to be used by the Park Authority. International impact can also arise by considering how learning can be used to support other Parks and regional designations beyond Scotland, thus supporting global sustainability transitions.

Supervisors

Dr Zoe Malcolm

Dr Sarah Parry

Dr Rosalind Bryce

Dr Mike Woolvin