Syed Hammad Ul Haq’s Master’s thesis ‘Multi-dimensional forces and niche dynamics in the socio-technical transitions: Future alternative fuels in the shipping industry’ has been completed at the University of Vaasa. The thesis is part of the Clean Propulsion Technologies project’s WP1 ‘Roadmapping and business feasibility.
Sustainable transitions bring system changes. These system changes incorporate socio-economic and socio-technical perspectives. To study the socio-technical transitions, Hammad has used the framework ‘Multi-level perspective’, which includes three layers: macro, meso, and niches. There are multi-dimensional forces acting as drivers for new technologies, and these forces are also creating tensions in the stable regimes (meso level). Moreover, there are different niche dynamics: competition, hybridization, and accumulation. In his thesis, the multi-dimensional forces and niche dynamics are studied in the context of the shipping industry, and also the future of alternative fuels is discussed along with the barriers.
Hammad moved to Finland from Pakistan. He started his Master’s studies in Strategic Business Development program in 2020 and he will be completing the degree by June 2022.
“I started working for the Clean Propulsion Technologies project last August, and the more I read about the topic, the more interesting it looks,” says Hammad.
According to Hammad for future studies, the niche dynamics can be studied more in depth. Moreover, through the result of the thesis, a future study can also be done on the barriers that can be created by the regime, and how to overcome these barriers.
“This was an interesting journey that has shown me a completely new perspective on looking at transitions. Also, this experience has developed my skills for future endures” Hammad sums up.
