Adapting transformation and transforming adaptation to climate change using a pathways approach

•There is a clear need to shift to intentional transformative adaptation (ITA).•ITA can be achieved through incremental and transformative actions.•Central to ITA are issues of social change and power imbalances.•Participants in six case studies could overcome some challenges to implementing ITA.•Enabling change requires pluralism, knowledge contestation, and re-politicisation.