From consultation toward co-production in science and policy: A critical systematic review of participatory climate and energy initiatives

Abstract

In recent decades, co-production has become a cornerstone both in science and policy-making, motivating further collaboration between different actors. To scrutinize such participatory processes within the climate and energy fields, we conducted a critical systematic review of 183 records, which includes scientific publications, but also other initiatives coming from the public administration or the non-profit sector. First, we unpack six aspects of co-production: (1) the different levels of participation; (2) the emerging topics and issues; (3) the scale and location at which initiatives are conducted; (4) the actors who take part in the processes; (5) the different methods and tools for participation and (6) the outcomes and transformational potential of the initiatives. Our results show that real co-production is still far from being mainstream, with consultation still accounting for a majority of initiatives. Themes remain focused on the mitigation sphere, a tendency related to a majority of the records happening in developed countries. However, we also observe new categories of actors challenging traditional decision-making, as well as emerging methods and tools opening the space for more social innovation and participation. Following, in our critical analysis, we argue that there is a crucial need for a better interconnection between science and policy (especially at national and international scales) and that a reflection on transformation is fundamental when planning any participatory initiative. We finally claim that, despite not being a silver bullet, meaningful citizen participation constitutes a viable alternative to tackle today's complex problems. © 2020