From energy to circularity: Examining cross-transitional learning on the Island of Ameland

Island communities are widely recognized as frontrunners in sustainability transitions, often driven by cohesive social networks and a shared aspiration for self-sufficiency. This study investigates the Dutch Wadden island of Ameland, which has undergone a significant energy transition and is now pursuing both heat and circular transitions. The central focus of this research is on understanding higher-order learning—learning that transcends individual transitions and informs broader governance approaches—within and across these successive sustainability transitions. While learning is increasingly acknowledged as vital to transition success, empirical studies rarely examine how insights are transferred between different transition domains. To address this gap, we applied the learning history method, using semi-structured interviews and a focus group with local stakeholders to trace critical learning moments and their influence over time. Our findings reveal that Ameland’s transitions are shaped by the capacity of its governance network to engage in reflective, trial-and-error learning and to absorb and apply new knowledge across contexts. However, we also observe a persistent tendency to rely on established routines, which may constrain adaptive capacity in the face of novel challenges. These results highlight the importance of fostering higher-order learning processes and dynamic governance structures to support effective multi-domain sustainability transitions.