Transitions toward more sustainable development pathways in cities emerge out of a complex constellation of actors, policy initiatives, socio-economic and political pressures, and technological innovations. Strategies that might trigger and accelerate these transitions are increasingly of interest, as international climate negotiations yield uninspiring results and Canada's own transition stumbles upon deeply regressive environmental and social policy. In this talk I will explore the ingredients of effective sustainability governance in cities, set against the backdrop of Canada's recent federal election and upcoming United Nations climate change negotiations in Paris. I will highlight the potential role of rarely discussed but crucial actors, such as small businesses, and speculate about the transformative potential of initiatives led by cities across the country. Ultimately, our goal will be to consider what is required to move from incrementalism to a system-wide shift towards r
