Against the backdrop of pressing global challenges related to climate and social justice, ecological transition, sustainable development, a new approach trying to reconcile these issues emerged. This new research path is embodied in the eco-social literature, often publishing under the terms "sustainable welfare" and eco-social policies and addressing the nexus between social and environmental goals. Recent developments, such as the energy crisis following the Russian invasion of Ukraine in 2022, the disruption of shipping routes following Houthi attacks in the Red Sea, or the intensification of extreme climate events, made these challenges more relevant than ever before. Until now, however, this literature has leaned predominantly towards prescriptive theories, with limited attention given to an in-depth analysis of policies and programs, notably exemplified by initiatives such as the European Green Deal and the Just Transition Fund, the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals, and local policy examples. The reason behind this gap is the fact that, besides some seminal works, this strand of literature is still missing a solid conceptual and analytical framework, which could enable researchers to study and compare different policies, programs or even political discourses. With the aim of enhancing this promising field of study, in this work we argue for the need of creating a shared set of concepts and analytical tools. To accomplish this, we first put together the scarce, yet relevant, eco-social literature that seeks to build a shared theoretical framework for analysis. Then, we try to integrate them and to discuss their merits and shortcomings. Lastly, we analyse how classical instruments of policy analysis can be successfully integrated with the emerging eco-social discourse, while acknowledging the challenges that this enterprise poses. By placing social justice, ecological transition, and climate change at the forefront, our approach underscores the urgency of integrating a coherent methodology into the theoretical fabric of eco-social studies. We advocate for a paradigm shift that enriches the depth and applicability of this strand of literature, fostering a comparative understanding of socio-environmental issues, their links and their limits.
