Change agency and path development in peripheral regions: from pulp production towards eco-industry in Lapland

Abstract

In this paper, we identify the patterns of change agency in peripheral regions and the forces shaping them. The following are the main research questions: (a) what are the patterns of local change agency like in peripheral regions and (b) what causes patterns of local change agency? We seek answers to these questions by carrying out a detailed analysis of trinity of change agency in Lapland, Finland. We show how the pattern of it evolves in time, and how, in a crisis, new modes of agency surface and key actors need to learn new ways of intervening. Change agents need to build confidence and mobilize resources, capabilities and power. The empirical study follows a longitudinal single case study design. The empirical data were based on 15 interviews of the national and local/regional development agencies as well as from firms and research/educational organizations. Additionally, the written material from the Internet, relevant journals, related newspaper articles and respective policy documents were analysed. The empirical analysis identifies the main phases of path development in Eastern Lapland, key actors in different phases and their agency.