Tipping+: Inducing positive tipping points in Svalbard and other coal and carbon-intensive regions

This presentation reports on preliminary findings and future work in the EU-project Tipping+, enabling positive tipping points in coal and carbon intensive regions (CCIR). Svalbard is one of numerous case studies in this project where we are investigating the processes allowing a transition away from carbon intensive economies. Unlike other world regions, Svalbard’s particular political and economic conditions have permitted the phasing out of coal without the concerns of political instability in life-cycle communities. This makes Svalbard a particularly salient case to study how society and the economy respond to the cessation of coal, with lessons for the rest of the world seeking to move into the post-carbon economy and culture. Preliminary work shows what are likely tipping points in demographic dimensions leading up to and following the decision to close the coal mines. For instance, the number of female residents increased markedly following 2015. To find whether this decision to close the coal mine and the statistical indication of tipping points are experienced by Svalbard residents, and to investigate sustainable pathways, the project will involve visits to Svalbard and discussions with residents