Transformational Urban Transitions towards a New Type of Sustainability
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Keywords

urban development
transformational transitions
capacity building
social innovations
technologies
digital transformation
narratives
new governance models

How to Cite

KohnoM., & IlinaI. (2025). Transformational Urban Transitions towards a New Type of Sustainability. Foresight and STI Governance, 19(4), 17-27. https://doi.org/10.17323/fstig.2025.29080

Abstract

The need to comply with new economic models (Industry 4.0 and 5.0) is driving countries, organizations, and sectors toward technological transformation. The implementation of such large-scale projects requires a certain level of maturity and a special resource base to overcome various obstacles. The article analyzes the key components of specific potential for such initiatives based on the experience of urban transformation, which can serve as a model for other socio-economic systems. Empirical data from Japanese and European cities reveal key patterns that influence the outcomes of the transition. The role of narrative tools in building consensus among all participants is emphasized, without which transformational projects risk adding to the dominant statistics of failures.

The analysis of factors presented in the article enriches our understanding of the specifics of transformational transitions, not so much from the point of view of technological capabilities, but rather from the perspective of contextual and cultural differences and a certain degree of maturity of urban management teams and the population. Its results may be useful for leaders initiating long-term radical transformations in various sectors to transition to sustainability and a new quality of development.

https://doi.org/10.17323/fstig.2025.29080
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