The Faculty of Sociology invites you to the first meeting from the series "Research usages from social practice theory". The lecture on "Sustainable consumption and social change: intervening in everyday life practices" will be given by Marlyne Sahakian from the University of Geneve on January 12, 2023, at 17:00 via Microsoft Teams Platform.
Abstract:
Un-sustainable consumption patterns can lead to negative social and environmental impacts, not least climate change. There are certain consumption domains that have higher impacts than others, such as mobility, meat consumption, and heating homes. In this lecture, I first introduce sociological approaches to understanding everyday life dynamics that are significant in environmental terms, such as getting around, preparing a meal, or being comfortable at home. I then consider an unsustainable practice and use social practice theory as a theory of change to devise ways to intervene in that practice, with consideration for social norms, material arrangements, and skills and competencies, among other factors. The aim is to recognize how sustainable consumption dynamics must be embedded in social, institutional and material arrangements. Information campaigns to influence behaviour change or more efficient technologies alone, will not suffice. Change needs to be understood in all of its complexity. In conclusion, I will discuss the limits and opportunities of such an approach.
Marlyne Sahakian is an Associate Professor of Sociology at the University of Geneva (Switzerland), where she brings a sociological lens to consumption studies and sustainability. She coordinates research projects on energy, food, and wellbeing, often working with inter- and trans-disciplinary teams. She co-founded SCORAI Europe in 2012, a network for sustainable consumption research and action, and is co-chair of the European Sociological Association’s Research Network on Consumption. She is also co-editor of the newly launched Consumption & Society journal with Bristol University Press.