Based on experiences with analyses of ecological modernisation strategies in Western Europe and the implementation of non fossil energy systems in South East Asia, it is the purpose of the article to discuss industrial transition strategies reducing the risk for global warming.

After COP 15 there is at the global level a lack of strong institutions regulating global warming. On the other hand, the discourse of global warming still has a very important momentum in the global community and therefore it is important to consider how to develop more differentiated strategies addressing the emission of greenhouse gases. These strategies have to address the sectors of industry that are most important such as the energy system, the transportation system, the agricultural system and the housing industry.

Inspired by industrial transition theories, theories on niches and governance theories the article analyses how successful transitions develop and sustain. Examples are from CDM project initiatives in Thailand, industrial symbiosis in Denmark and the energy system in Denmark. The article concludes how a combination of meta-governance, the establishment of stakeholder networks and niche management can transform industries in a more sustainable direction.