The social dynamics in establishing complex community climate change initiatives: the case of a community fridge in Scotland

Abstract Multiple factors are involved in community change processes, yet understanding how interact to shape these complex social processed is limited. This has important implications for both research and sustainability practice. study examines key dynamics establishing initiatives using an in-depth action-oriented transdisciplinary approach with a case of the development fridge. Four critical were identified: reinforcing interpretations, interconnections, re-alignment identities, quality relations involving multiple normative facets converging diverging different ways as process unfolded. Initially, this led degenerative dynamic that heightened tensions between actors; however, wider identities expressions underlying dimensions initiative, regenerative was created. strengthened conditions support shared understanding, learning enhanced relationships enable actors work together aspects initiative. Overall, highlights future community-based need be guided by explicit approaches relationships, but where conceptualised spaces interaction exploration. can inform on develop beneficial dynamics, advances one aspect within begin reinforce others increase collective capacity whole. Developing potential through thus engaging challenges across communities.