Accountability and the regulation of legitimacy: Biodiversity conservation and energy extraction in the American west

Abstract

Energy extraction in the western United States poses existential risks to sage-grouse, a charismatic ground-nesting bird. Study of how this concern is integrated into the governance of the sector can inform a broader analysis of sustainability transitions. I introduce a model of co-evolution of standards of legitimacy and material practices that highlights how emergence of new accountability 'tests' can potentially drive socio-ecological transformation. This evolutionary model emphasises accountability and legitimacy as mechanisms of selection (demographic/ behavioural change). Because accountability mechanisms and selection pressures do not exist to transform the Colorado energy sector in a manner that benefits sage-grouse, the assessment reveals that there is no sustainability transition underway. As we focus on the broader analytical and practical challenges presented by sustainability transitions, attention to accountability, legitimacy, and selection mechanisms will be essential.