







































19 
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Economy 
Vol. 10, No. 1, 19-28, 2023 

ISSN(E) 2313-8181/ ISSN(P) 2518-0118 
DOI: 10.20448/economy.v10i1.4983 

© 2023 by the authors; licensee Asian Online Journal Publishing Group 

 
 

 
 
 
The structural transformation of territories and the climate governance of an urban 
area: The mediating role of human capital in adaptation processes  

 
Ahmed Ait Bari1   

Mustapha Amzil2   

Abdeljalil Mazzaourou3   

Jamal Agouram4   

  
( Corresponding Author) 

 
1,2,3Faculty of Legal, Economic and Social Sciences Agadir, University Ibn Zohr, Morocco. 
1Email: a.aitbari@uiz.ac.ma  
2Email: mustapha.amzil@edu.uiz.ac.ma  
3Email: mazzaourou@gmail.com  
4Faculty of Economics and Management Guelmim, University Ibn Zohr, Morocco. 
4Email: jamal.agouram@edu.uiz.ac.ma  

 
Abstract 

This article forms a crucial part of an economic essay exploring the dynamics of territorial climate 
governance and its potential impact on the structural transformation of Agadir, a vibrant city. In 
this context, the role of human capital is also examined while considering the theoretical nuances 
and empirical analysis tools. The central question drives this study: "to what extent can territorial 
climate governance contribute to the structural transformation of Agadir, and how does human 
capital mediate this process?". To tackle this question, we adopted an abductive reasoning 
approach and aligned our methodology with a post-positivist paradigm. By meticulously aligning 
theory with observed reality, we formulated a hypothetical model that interconnects the trio of 
climate governance, structural transformation, and human capital in the context of Agadir. This 
model was put to the test with data collected from 416 stakeholders involved in the management 
of territorial affairs in the city. The findings reveal compelling evidence of significant 
contributions and correlations among the concepts studied. However, our results also highlight 
the necessity of recognizing and involving new actors to strengthen Agadir's climate governance 
mechanisms. In conclusion, our research sheds light on the crucial role of territorial climate 
governance and human capital in driving the structural transformation of Agadir. By providing a 
novel perspective on this topic, our study underscores the need for inclusive and proactive 
engagement of various stakeholders to bolster climate governance measures in the city, paving 
the way for sustainable development and growth. 

 
Keywords: City of Agadir, Climate governance, Human capital, Structural transformation, Territory. 

JEL Classification: C13; O00; P00; Q58; Q59. 
 
Citation | Bari, A. A., Amzil, M., Mazzaourou, A., & Agouram, J. (2023). 
The structural transformation of territories and the climate governance of 
an urban area: The mediating role of human capital in adaptation 
processes. Economy, 10(1), 19–28. 10.20448/economy.v10i1.4983 
History:  
Received: 28 June 2023 
Revised: 11 August 2023 
Accepted: 18 August 2023 
Published: 31 August 2023  
Licensed: This work is licensed under a Creative Commons 

Attribution 4.0 License  
Publisher:  Asian Online Journal Publishing Group 
 

Funding: This study received no specific financial support.    
Institutional Review Board Statement: Not applicable. 
Transparency: The authors confirm that the manuscript is an honest, 
accurate, and transparent account of the study; that no vital features of the 
study have been omitted; and that any discrepancies from the study as planned 
have been explained. This study followed all ethical practices during writing. 
Data Availability Statement: The corresponding author may provide study 
data upon reasonable request. 
Competing Interests: The authors declare that they have no competing 
interests. 
Authors’ Contributions: All authors contributed equally to the conception 
and design of the study. All authors have read and agreed to the published 
version of the manuscript. 

 

Contents 
1. Introduction ...................................................................................................................................................................................... 20 
2. Materials and Methods ................................................................................................................................................................... 24 
3. Data Analysis Results and Discussion ......................................................................................................................................... 25 
4. Conclusion ......................................................................................................................................................................................... 27 
References .............................................................................................................................................................................................. 28 
 

 

mailto:a.aitbari@uiz.ac.ma
mailto:mustapha.amzil@edu.uiz.ac.ma
mailto:mazzaourou@gmail.com
mailto:jamal.agouram@edu.uiz.ac.ma
https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
https://www.doi.org/10.20448/economy.v10i1.4983
https://orcid.org/0009-0007-9875-1775
https://orcid.org/0009-0007-9875-1775
https://orcid.org/0009-0006-9538-3818
https://orcid.org/0000-0002-1574-1464


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Contribution of this paper to the literature 
It exists in the mobilization of the key concepts of our work, namely, structural transformation, 
climate governance, and territorial human capital. Thus, to the empirical contributions.   

 
1. Introduction 

This research endeavour seeks to advance our understanding of the contribution of climate governance 
mechanisms to the structural transformation of territories, specifically within the context of Morocco. Despite the 
significant attention the concept has garnered in recent years, the current theoretical framework remains 
predominantly descriptive, needing more explanatory and predictive capabilities. This gap in knowledge of 
objective and subjective measures of governance processes is particularly evident in the context of research on 
climate governance in Morocco, which forms the geographic scope of our study. 

Furthermore, while the concept of governance has been widely explored in various disciplines, there needs to 
be more consensus on its construct and empirical studies remain limited. This theoretical gap can be attributed to 
the diverse disciplinary perspectives and purposes that employ the concept of governance. In addition to its 
academic significance, this research also holds economic relevance, as the absence of widely accepted indicators 
hinders our understanding of the impact of governance on the potential for structural change in a juxtaposed space, 
such as a territory. 

Notwithstanding the geographical limitation of our study, our theoretical and conceptual framing sheds light 
on this under-theorized phenomenon and contributes to the existing knowledge on the topic. We hope this 
research will pave the way for further investigations and discussions on the role of climate governance in driving 
structural transformation in Morocco and other contexts, ultimately informing policies and practices aimed at 
promoting sustainable development and growth. 

This study addresses the question: "Can territorial climate governance contribute to the structural 
transformation of Agadir city? And to what extent can human capital play a mediating role?" To achieve this, we 
have adopted a methodological approach that draws inspiration from post-positivism and utilizes an abductive 
reasoning mode. This involves formulating hypotheses and deriving predictions to assess their validity. 

To answer the research question, we have undertaken a comprehensive analysis that includes a theoretical and 
conceptual framework, selection of study variables, and empirical verification using the structural equations model 
(SEM) approach. The paper is organized into three main axes. The first axis delves into the conceptual and 
theoretical foundations of critical concepts. The second axis outlines the methodology employed and details the 
research field. The third axis focuses on the analysis and discussion of the obtained results. 

Overall, the findings of this study have allowed us to address the research question and provide insights into 
the spatial mechanisms of climate governance in the context of the structural transformation of the territory. 
Through our research, we have contributed to understanding the role of territorial climate governance and human 
capital in driving transformative processes in Agadir City. 
 

1.1. Climate Governance and Structural Transformation at the Crossroads of Different Territorial 
Conceptions 

Structural transformation and climate governance of territories are two central notions for understanding 
current environmental challenges. However, it is essential to emphasize that these issues are closely linked to the 
question of human capital, i.e. the sum of knowledge, skills, experiences and values held by individuals and 
mobilized in the transformation and governance processes. 

Indeed, human capital plays a crucial role in the capacity of territorial actors to understand environmental 
issues and propose appropriate solutions. It also helps strengthen citizen participation and democratic governance 
by involving local communities in decision-making. However, considering human capital is essential to promote a 
sustainable structural transformation and effective climate governance of territories. 

In this axis, we will outline the theoretical concepts related to the territorial transition of climate governance 
and aspects of structural transformation to identify causal relationships and draw up the research model. 
 

1.2. The Territorial Inclusion of Climate Governance 
"Governance" is a multifaceted notion encompassing a broad range of literature and diverse jargon. This 

resurgence of interest in governance is closely tied to the evolving dynamics of the global production system and 
the growing complexity of institutional requirements, which necessitate developing and utilizing various tools to 
articulate and assess the scope of different visions and policies. However, debates on governance are not 
homogenous, as the concept remains multidisciplinary, and its meaning can vary depending on the field of analysis, 
discipline, and even the object of study. 

Climate governance is how actors discover, transmit and coordinate their actions to solve climate problems. 
This awareness occurs at different levels, individual, team and organizational levels, notwithstanding that climate 
governance at the individual level is crucial for a community or network of actors. 

At the territorial level, climate governance of territories is an issue that is receiving increasing attention from 
local and national governments, especially in the context of the current environmental crisis. To achieve 
environmental and social objectives, it is crucial to implement public policies that consider the requirements of 
environmental protection and sustainable development. As highlighted by Rifkin, Long, and Perry (2018) this 
implies reorienting public policies and integrating environmental concerns into all policies. 

In order to implement these public policies, continuous monitoring of environmental quality and data 
collection are fundamental elements of territorial climate governance. Collecting environmental data is essential for 
political decision-making, particularly regarding biodiversity conservation (Daily, 1997). Devices for measuring air 
quality, water quality, biodiversity and greenhouse gas emissions must be put in place. The data collected are then 
used for decision-making, environmental policy development and dissemination of information to stakeholders. 



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Moreover, the debate on public policies for environmental protection and sustainable development is crucial to 
climate governance in the territories. In particular, the active involvement of territorial actors in the decision-
making process is essential for implementing effective environmental policies. To this end, it is crucial to allow 
stakeholders' active participation and establish mechanisms for citizen participation, such as dialogue forums and 
public consultations. In this regard, climate governance of territories is a significant challenge for achieving 
environmental and social objectives. Fundamental mechanisms include : 

• The compliance of public policies. 

• The continuous monitoring of environmental quality. 

• The collection and exploitation of data. 

• The debate on public policies for environmental protection and sustainable development. 
These elements require active collaboration between political, economic, and social actors, as well as increased 

transparency and accountability on the part of policymakers (Daily, 1997). 
One of the most significant challenges posed to the scientific community is to better align the concept of 

territorial climate governance. To this end, we will bridge the gap between leading theoretical works and on-the-
ground observations by regarding climate governance as an organic extension of territorial governance in climate 
affairs management. (Cf. Figure 1). 
 

 
Figure 1. Rapprochement of the concept of territorial climate governance. 

 
In conjunction with the discussions surrounding territorial climate governance, novel interpretations have 

emerged that focus on the concept of structural transformation of a territory, exploring how a territory can change 
to organize and innovate its spatial dynamics effectively. 
 

1.3. The Structural Transformation of the Territory 
The structural transformation of territories can be understood from various perspectives, particularly 

considering this change as a transition from an agricultural territory to an industrial or service territory. This 
transformation depends on the capacity of a territory to accommodate the surplus labor force of the primary sector 
and to allow the migration of the population to other sectors. This transition requires judicious management of 
human resources to ensure a smooth transition without economic and social disruption. 

However, the structural transformation of territories is more expansive than this economic dimension. It also 
involves all the processes that enable decision-makers to master better the terrain in which they operate, using the 
available data to make informed strategic decisions. It thus assumes that decision-makers can understand territorial 
dynamics and use the appropriate tools to optimize their effects. 

Several authors have addressed the issue of the structural transformation of territories. Among them is  
(Chamard & Schlenker, 2017) who considers that this transformation is linked to the evolution of production 
modes and the globalization of the economy. For him, the territories must adapt to the new economic realities by 
developing specific skills and implementing ambitious territorial strategies. 

For their part, Khan, Taraporevala, and Zérah (2018) look at how territories are transformed according to 
population flows, investments, infrastructures and public policies. He emphasizes the importance of coordination 
between different territorial actors to ensure a harmonious and sustainable transformation. 

Similarly, Lacquement and Quéva (2016) highlight the importance of innovation and entrepreneurship in 
transforming territories. According to them, the most prosperous regions have developed a culture of innovation 
and collaboration between businesses, universities and public actors. 

The structural transformation of territories is a complex process, integrating various economic, social and 
territorial dimensions. To succeed in this transformation, decision-makers must be able to understand territorial 
dynamics and rely on reliable data to make informed strategic decisions. Based on the arguments put forward by 
the researchers concerning the structural transformation of the territories, we can summarize them through the 
Figure 2.  
 



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Figure 2. Rapprochement of the concept of structural transformation of territory. 

 
Nevertheless, it is crucial to recognize that territorial climate governance alone is insufficient. The mechanisms 

of human capital within a territory are necessary to facilitate a more effective structural transformation. As such, 
the multifaceted territorial actors can serve as catalysts to ensure a more meaningful integration of climate 
governance within the spatial dynamics of the territory. 
 

1.4. Territorial Human Capital 
The concept of territorial human capital has its roots in the economic theory of human capital, developed in 

particular by Becker (1962) and Mincer (1958) who consider that the education, professional training and 
experience acquired by individuals are investments that can increase their future productivity and income. This 
theory was subsequently enriched by many authors, including Schultz (1961) who introduced the notion of human 
capital in the context of economic development. 

Territorial human capital can be defined as the skills, knowledge and abilities of individuals who live and work 
in a given territory and their capacity to collaborate and exchange information with other local actors. This notion 
has been developed by the French economists Grossetti (2001) and Boutinet (2005) who stress the importance of 
social capital and the relational dimension in constructing territorial human capital. 

Territorial human capital can positively affect a territory's economic and social development. Moreover, 
according to a study conducted by Boutinet (2005) on creative cities, territories with significant human capital, 
particularly in art, culture and new technologies, tend to be more innovative and more competitive economically. 

However, the construction of territorial human capital can be hindered by various factors, such as geographic 
isolation, lack of educational and cultural infrastructure, or social and ethnic discrimination. Similarly, regions that 
have experienced significant spatial segregation tend to have less developed human capital and lower economic 
growth. 

In conclusion, territorial human capital is a complex social and economic process that involves mobilizing the 
skills and abilities of individuals living and working in a given territory and their ability to collaborate and 
exchange information with other territorial actors. This concept can positively affect a territory's economic and 
social development, but various structural and social factors can also hinder it. 

Ultimately, bringing the concept of territorial human capital together leads to the same territorial dimensions 
of social capital developed by many researchers. This is how we will present them in the Figure 3. 
 

 
Figure 3. Rapprochement of the concept of territorial human capital. 

 
The comprehensive review of relevant literature in this axis has facilitated the development of an analytical 

framework that delineates the three pivotal concepts and their hypothesized interconnections from diverse 
theoretical perspectives. This framework serves as a robust foundation for constructing and validating 
measurement scales. The resultant research model, which emerged from a rigorous integration of theory and 
empirical observations, is visually depicted in the Figure 4. 
 



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Figure 4. Research model. 

 
The next crucial phase involves operationalizing our research model by leveraging the core concepts and sub-

concepts. To this end, we have employed twenty measurement items that capture the critical dimensions of climate 
governance, structural transformation, and territorial human capital. These measurement items will be coded using 
the established procedures of the five-point Likert scale. The Table 1 presents the items operationalizing the latent 
concepts under investigation. 
 

Table 1. Operationalization of the concepts. 

Concepts  Scales of measurement Codes 

Territorial climate governance 

The collective mobilization of actors allows for the design of 
public policies that enable sustainable development 

PPCS_1 

Climate governance refers to the movement of all actors in 
the preparation and implementation of environmental public 
policies 

PPCS_2 

Visibility and integrity allow for better monitoring of the 
environmental situation 

MES_1 

Access to environmental information strengthens actors 
involvement 

MES_2 

Transparency and accountability lead to better climate 
governance 

COOA_1 

Collaboration among territorial actors represents a potent 
approach to climate governance 

COOA_2 

The spirit of initiative of the territorial actors can solve the 
climate problems 

COOA_3 

Structural transformation of 
territory 

Inter-sector labor mobility reinforces structural 
transformation 

WORO_1 

Transparency and availability of information helps to guide 
the workforce 

WORO_2 

The integration of innovation implies the dumping of 
productive sectors 

IINOV_1 

The management of innovation activities leads to structural 
change in the territory 

IINOV_2 

The collective engagement of actors contributes to their 
active participation and involvement 

IA_1 

The collaborative engagement of actors is an effective form 
of territorial participation 

IA_2 

Territorial human capital 

Having a common culture, shared values, and similar 
lifestyles 

COGC_1 

Having a shared philosophy and similar approaches to 
business relationships 

COGC_2 

Aligning on a shared vision with compatible goals and 
objectives 

COGC_3 

Regular and close personal interaction, and intensive 
engagement 

RELC_1 

Respectful and trusting relationship RELC_2 
Efficient dissemination and exchange of information within 
business networks 

STRC_1 

Interaction across various territorial levels and through 
diverse means 

STRC_2 

 



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Now, it is imperative to provide a thorough justification of our methodological choices and a comprehensive 
description of our research field to uphold our study's ethical rigor.  
 

2. Materials and Methods 
Our choice of methodology is heavily influenced by the abductive approach, which falls under the post-positivist 

paradigm. This method involves a "back and forth" process between abstract theory and the observed reality in the 
field. The researcher formulates research questions based on pre-existing theoretical constructs without testing 
causal relationships beforehand. Hypotheses are then generated to either confirm or disprove these constructs. 

To address our research problem, we consulted various works that provided an overview of conceptual 
frameworks and theoretical and empirical literature related to our keywords. This allowed us to develop a suitable 
analytical framework. Following the logic of the post-positivist paradigm, we then modelled the facts to understand 
better the issues surrounding climate governance and structural transformation. 

It is also essential to justify our methodological choices and provide transparency in our research to uphold 
ethical standards. 

To justify our methodological approach, we selected Agadir as our research field due to its diverse range of 
institutional, economic, and civil actors involved in the city’s affairs. Agadir holds a significant position in Morocco’s 
economic and administrative landscape, making it an ideal location to study the intersection of climate governance 
and structural transformation. The city also provides a rich array of territorial actors who play a role in its 
management. Given that structural transformation is a complex and long-term process requiring the involvement of 
numerous actors, conducting a sufficient number of surveys with a representative sample of stakeholders was 
necessary to gain a comprehensive understanding of the process. We also took into account the sampling lists and 
strata when extracting samples. The table below provides a clear overview of the information underlying our sample 
collection process. 

As per statistical criteria, we had to select a sample for our survey, as choosing a target population would have 
been impractical for our study, given the numerous territorial actors operating in the city of Agadir, which forms a 
known and finite population. Therefore, a pilot study was conducted with randomly selected actors to identify the 
parameters characterizing the respondents. The pilot study allowed us to validate the questionnaire and calculate 
central tendency and dispersion characteristics for the variable of interest, “Annual frequency of participation in 
territorial projects during the last ten years.” Specifically, 52 actors provided information on the number of 
territorial projects they had participated in over the past decade, allowing us to calculate the annual frequency of 
participation (Number of participations/10 years).  

The next step is to test the normality of the distribution of training frequencies in order to determine the 
appropriate method for calculating the sample size. If the distribution is normally distributed, we will use the 
recommended formula for sample size calculation. Otherwise, we will utilize the developments of the designed for 
populations with an unknown distribution of the variable of interest. 

At first glance, we can see that the mean, median and mode of the variable of interest are equal, which implies 
that the distribution is normal. However, we performed the Kolmogorov-Smirnov and Shapiro-Wilk normality tests 
to refine our statistical thinking. It turned out that the null hypothesis, which assumes the normality of the 
distribution, is verified in both cases since the P-value is higher than the significance level of 5%. Hence, the 
distribution of the variable of interest is Gaussian. 

In the same wavelength, to calculate the size of the sample in the case of a finite population normally distributed, 
it is necessary to apply the formula of calculation recommended by the statisticians in this sense and which is stated 
as follows: 
 

𝒏 =
𝒁𝟐𝟏−𝜶

𝟐
  𝑽𝒂𝒓(𝒙)𝑵 

𝜺𝟐𝑵+ 𝒁𝟐𝟏−𝜶
𝟐

  𝑽𝒂𝒓(𝒙)
 

 

• 𝑥: Interest variable. 

• 𝜀: Precision. 

• 𝑛 : Sample size. 

• 𝑁: Population size. 

• Z : Value of the reduced and centered variable for a probability of  1 −
𝜶

𝟐
 . 

• 𝛼 : Signification level. 
It is necessary to proceed with extracting the sample, considering the parameters and the calculation formula 

developed above. The Table 2 gives a clear overview of the information underlying the sample selection and the 
calculation procedures used to deduce the number of territorial actors to be interviewed.   
 

Table 2. Sample size calculation. 

Parameters Symbols/Formulas Values 

Variance of the interest variable Var (x) 35.479% 

95% Probability threshold Z 1-
𝛼

2
 1.96 

Precision 𝜀 5% 

Population  N 1753 

Sample 𝑛 =
𝑍²

1−
𝛼

2
 
 𝑉𝑎𝑟(𝑥)𝑁 

𝜀²𝑁 + 𝑍²1−𝛼
2

  𝑉𝑎𝑟(𝑥)
 416 Territorial actors 

 



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In the final phase of our study, we administered a questionnaire survey to 416 actors actively involved in 
managing territorial affairs in the city of Agadir. The data collected from this survey were then extrapolated to test 
the specified model and provide insights into the contribution of climate governance to the structural 
transformation of Agadir. This approach allowed us to gather empirical evidence and generate meaningful 
responses to the research questions. 
 

3. Data Analysis Results and Discussion 
In order to test our Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) model, we employed the Partial Least Squares (PLS) 

approach, which is considered more suitable for our study due to its objectives and constraints. PLS allows for 
testing of developing models, accommodating non-normally distributed data, and working with small sample sizes. 
Accordingly, we will utilize the PLS approach to conduct our analyses and discuss the results obtained from our 
study. 
 

3.1. Results 
After importing the data obtained from the survey, we proceeded to test our model using the latest 

developments in the PLS algorithm. Following the standard SEM modelling process, we followed five key steps: 
model specification, model identification, model estimation, model goodness-of-fit evaluation, and model 
confirmatory analysis. 

Model specification involved creating a graphical representation of the overall measurement scheme of our 
model. In this phase, we specified the various elements of the model, including the observed variables and their 
assumed relationships, as depicted in the Figure 5. 
 

 
Figure 5. Global model. 

 
In our model, we have twenty observed variables that are supposed to measure three latent variables (factors). 

The second phase of our SEM modelling approach is model identification. As Schumacker and Lomax (2004) 
recommended, we evaluated the order condition by checking if the number of degrees of freedom is greater than 
zero. Our model's order condition is met, and the degree of freedom is positive (dof=373). 

The third phase of our approach involved estimating the model using the factorial algorithm of PLS on all 416 
statistical units, which are the territorial actors operating in the city of Agadir. This resulted in the Figure 6, which 
presents the estimated model. 

The estimation results of the model’s parameters confirmed that most of the measurement items used had 
loading factors greater than 0.7, indicating a solid contribution to the respective latent variables. However, one 
item, STRC_2, which operationalizes the territorial human capital dimension, recorded a relatively low correlation 
coefficient. As per the condition of order and validity, a readjustment is necessary by deleting this item to capture 
the dimensions and underlying contribution links better. Consequently, the new globally respecified model is as in 
Figure 7.  

 
 



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Figure 6. Global model estimation. 

 

 
Figure 7. Estimation of respecified model. 

 
Figure 7 shows the revised model estimate. To evaluate the goodness of fit of the respecified model, we need to 

examine its explanatory power and ensure the convergent validity and discriminant validity of the model. 
Convergent validity involves calculating one or two measures, such as Cronbach’s alpha and the internal 
consistency developed by Fornell and Larcker (1981). Nunnally (1978) guideline can also be used for interpreting 
the obtained values.  

Discriminant validity refers to using the average extracted variance shared between the construct and its 



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measurement indicators. It must be greater than the variance shared between the construct and other constructs in 
the model. Additionally, Chin (1998) recommends an average variance extracted (AVE) greater than 0.5. Therefore, 
we evaluate the global model based on the recommended tests and critical values. The Table 3 presents the values 
of various indicators, including Cronbach’s alpha, composite reliability, average extracted variance, R², and the Gof 
(Goodness of fit) index. 
 

Table 3. Evaluating the goodness of fit of the global model. 

Latent variables Cronbach’s alpha Composite reliability AVE R² Gof index 

Territorial climate Governance 0.921 0.935 0.615  
0.392 Structural transformation of the territory 0.955 0.964 0.815 0.971 

Territorial human capital 0.956 0.965 0.819 0.077 
 

Based on the findings, our model exhibits an acceptable level of representational quality per the recommended 
data analysis standards. However, to further assess the robustness of the results, it is essential to conduct a 
bootstrapping analysis to determine the significance of the contribution relationships between climate governance, 
structural transformation, and human capital under different scenarios. The results of this analysis are summarized 
in the Table 4 provided. 

 
Table 4. Estimation of the causal model by bootstrapping and hypothesis testing. 

Hypotheses β (Correlation 
coef.) 

t-Student 
(Bootstrap) 

P- 
values 

Decision 

H1. Territorial climate governance => Structural 
transformation of the territory 

0.000 0.029 0.977 Rejected 

H2. Territorial climate governance => Territorial 
human capital 

0.277 2.323 0.020 Supported 

H3. Territorial human capital => Structural 
transformation of the territory 

0.985 117.506 0.000 Supported 

 
To ensure reliable and robust answers to the research problem, we will thoroughly examine and discuss the 

main findings obtained from our analysis in light of the existing literature review. This will allow us to draw 
meaningful comparisons and establish connections between our results and relevant scholarly research.  
 

3.2. Discussion 
Upon concluding this analysis, it becomes apparent that this work's contribution to research lies in its focus on 

both a theoretical approach and field application in addressing the issue of climate governance concerning the 
mechanisms of structural transformation within the urban territory of Agadir. Today, it is only possible to discuss 
climate governance by considering the evolution of participation, involvement, and coordination mechanisms among 
territorial actors, which underlie its current configuration and development. Based on the research results, we can 

conclude that climate governance does not directly and significantly contribute (β = 0.000) to stimulating structural 
change in Agadir. However, suppose we view climate governance as a mode of production and regulation within 
territorial management. In that case, that is, the negotiation of environmental operations between the urban 
government representatives and economic actors, we can assert, with little risk of error, that Agadir's actors have 
long possessed a significant relational and cognitive potential, shaping their interventions in the promotion of public 
policies that support sustainable development. 

The study's findings suggest that the structural transformation of Agadir is primarily based on collective 
mobilization and management of resources, as well as enhancing territorial resilience to tackle ecological, economic, 
and social challenges. 

On the downside, the study reveals that when viewed solely as an actor capacity-building approach, climate 
governance may pose a risk and even a threat to democracy and citizenship. The public interest could be reduced to 
just one of many categorical interests in the game of negotiated actions between actors. This could create permanent 
confusion between democracy and management and subject cities solely to ecological and economic logic. 

Therefore, promoting a system of solidarity and coordination through networks and decentralized 
environmental services of administrations at the city level is crucial. Such a system should be part of a policy that 
focuses on strengthening the network in a city like Agadir, inspired mainly by sustainable development practices. 
This would help refocus actors' roles towards creating a more sustainable future for the city. 

However, it must be acknowledged that managing a city like Agadir presents significant challenges, and the task 
of coordination, participation, and involvement among actors is complex. Thus, any proposal for such a transition 
should be indicative rather than prescriptive. Re-founding the territorial approach must be contextualized and 
undertaken considering the various contingencies of the specific application environment. 
 

4. Conclusion 
In this paper, which focuses on studying the contribution of territorial climate governance to the structural 

transformation of Agadir City, we have developed a comprehensive framework of theoretical concepts, definitions, 
and analytical tools that interrelate these concepts and their underlying links. The article is organized into three 
main sections. 

The first section delves into key concepts' conceptual genesis and theoretical meanings. We provide a thorough 
overview of the conceptual and evolutionary dynamics that offer concrete definitions, followed by a discussion on 
the measures that can be identified. 



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The second section outlines the methodological choices and the research field. We conducted a survey using 
questionnaires with a sample of territorial actors operating in Agadir city, resulting in 416 completed 
questionnaires, from which data were extrapolated for the subsequent analyses. 

The third section presents the results of the analyses using state-of-the-art structural equation modelling 
techniques under the SmartPLS procedure. These results lead to conclusions regarding climate governance's 
contribution to the territory's structural transformation. 

Numerous indications exist that the relationship between coordination among actors and structural 
transformation in a territory has evolved into a mutually beneficial relationship where the strengthening of one 
does not come at the expense of the unity and integrity of the other. The transition of the urban environment and 
various mutations of social, institutional, and management nature, in which the city of Agadir is immersed, are a 
testament to this fact. These elements demonstrate that diversifying actors and establishing new standards are 
crucial in enhancing the transition from a monocentric to a polycentric conception of the environment based on 
ecological enhancement. 

Despite the significant contributions of this research, the conclusions drawn must be seen in the context of 
certain limitations. The survey instrument used has its limitations, particularly in terms of the difficulties involved 
in collecting data from stakeholders. The identification of these limitations leads us to propose new avenues of 
research to refine the study. 

To investigate the relationship between climate governance and structural transformation, we plan to conduct 
a study targeting the city of Agadir and all the public and private players involved in the management of territorial 
affairs in the Souss Massa region. 
 

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https://doi.org/10.1086/258724
https://doi.org/10.1177/002224378101800313
https://doi.org/10.1086/258055
https://doi.org/10.1016/j.smrv.2018.07.007

