ED Droit
Free creative works, a contractual analysis
by Adélaïde CHEVALLIER (INSTITUT DE RECHERCHE EN DROIT DES AFFAIRES ET DU PATRIMOINE)
The defense will take place at 14h00 - Salle 1K Pôle juridique et judiciaire Université de Bordeaux 35 Place Pey Berland, 33000 Bordeaux
in front of the jury composed of
- Guillaume WICKER - Professeur des universités - Université de Bordeaux - Directeur de these
- Hélène SKRZYPNIAK - Maîtresse de conférences - Université de Bordeaux - CoDirecteur de these
- Tristan AZZI - Professeur des universités - Université Paris 1 Panthéon Sorbonne - Rapporteur
- Suzanne LEQUETTE - Professeure des universités - Université de Picardie Jules Verne (UPJV) - Rapporteur
- Laura SAUTONIE-LAGUIONIE - Professeure des universités - Université de Bordeaux - Examinateur
- Pierre SIRINELLI - Professeur émérite - Université Paris 1 Panthéon Sorbonne - Examinateur
The concept of the “free cultural work,” also referred to as open source, designates a creation protected by copyright yet made available for use by all. While the expression remains relatively unfamiliar to the general public, free cultural works have become indispensable in contemporary practice, as illustrated by the success of the online encyclopedia Wikipedia and the growing appeal of free software such as Linux, OpenOffice, and the Moodle platform. Notwithstanding this expansion, the legal phenomenon of free cultural works continues to be only partially, if not inadequately, addressed. Furthermore, its legitimacy is the subject of recurrent doctrinal debate, insofar as the free cultural work stands in contrast to the traditional principles of French law, according to which property is tangible, non-digital, and reserved for the exclusive use of its owner. The purpose of this study is therefore to demonstrate that, despite its disruptive character, the free cultural work may, in its current form, be accommodated within the French legal order through contractual analysis.
ED Sciences de la Vie et de la Santé
Development of diffusion MRI and tractography of brain white matter fibers in the small animal at 7 Tesla
by Elise COSENZA (Institut des Maladies Neurodégénératives)
The defense will take place at 15h00 - Auditorium BBS Bâtiment BBS 2 Rue du Docteur Hoffmann Martinot 33000 BORDEAUX
in front of the jury composed of
- Laurent PETIT - Directeur de recherche - Groupe d'imagerie neurofonctionnelle - Institut des Maladies Neurodégénératives - Directeur de these
- Ileana JELESCU - Assistant professor - Lausanne University Hospital (CHUV) et University of Lausanne (UNIL) - Rapporteur
- Emmanuel CARUYER - Chargé de recherche - IRISA - Rapporteur
- Angèle VIOLA - Directrice de recherche - Centre de Résonance Magnétique Biologique et Médicale - Examinateur
The study of brain connectivity in mice is a major challenge for preclinical research. Although the mouse brain is anatomically simpler than the human brain, it remains a complex system. Its anatomical organisation is now well documented and precisely segmented thanks to the numerous atlases available. However, the connections between the different structures remain poorly understood. White matter, composed of bundles of axons connecting different brain regions, forms a network whose characterisation is essential for a better understanding of the overall functioning of the mouse brain. Diffusion magnetic resonance imaging (dMRI) has established itself as an essential for the non-invasive study of the brain. It is based on the measurement of water molecule displacement (accounting for approximately 80% of brain composition) and enables the indirect characterisation of tissue architecture and cerebral connectivity. From the obtained measurements, tractography can be used to reconstruct and visualise the brain connections. Although widely developed in humans and enhanced by numerous processing tools, DWI and tractography have several limitations due to their indirect nature. To validate and refine the results, dMRI and tractography must be combined with complementary, sometimes invasive methods that provide essential ‘real-world' data. This thesis addresses the translation of human diffusion MRI protocols to the mouse model and the development of automated image-processing tools tailored to preclinical dMRI datasets. However, performing diffusion MRI in small animals presents several challenges, such as the low SNR due to the small size of the imaged regions, and susceptibility effects introduced by high magnetic field strengths. The objective is twofold: obtaining quantitative and reliable diffusion metrics for all mouse brain regions, and generating a complete tractogram to map the white matter connectivity. Initially, methodological work was carried out to optimise diffusion MRI protocols on ex vivo mouse brains, from acquisition parameters to obtaining the diffusion metric quantification. A fully automated dMRI processing tool was developed, including quality control steps and tailored to the mouse brain studied. Subsequently, a fully automated tool was developed and made available to the scientific community. This tool enables the correction of artefacts frequently encountered during post-processing. Finally, in order to validate these results, the tractograms were compared with histology data using tools that enable the coupling and direct comparison of the two modalities. This work paves the way for better characterisation of brain connectivity networks in preclinical animal models. These advances provide significant prospects for elucidating brain function and plasticity, and for investigating mouse models of neurological pathologies.
Characterization of human MFN2 variants identified in patients to have a better understanding of CMT2A pathogenicity and help developing diagnostic tools for this neuropathy.
by Chloe BARSA (Institut de Biochimie et Génétique Cellulaires)
The defense will take place at 14h00 - Salle de conference (RDC) IBGC UMR 5095, Institut de Biochimie et Génétique Cellulaires, 33000, Bordeaux, France
in front of the jury composed of
- Arnaud CHEVROLLIER - Professeur - IUT Angers-Cholet - Institut Universitaire de Technologie - Examinateur
- Beatrice MORIO - Directrice de recherche - INSERM U.1060 / Université Lyon 1 / INRAe U.1397 / Hospices Civils Lyon - Rapporteur
- Francesca GIORDANO - Professeure - Institut de Biologie Integrative de la Cellule (I2BC), UMR9198, Paris Sud/CNRS, Gif-sur-Yvette, France - Rapporteur
- Guilem SOLE - Professeur des universités - praticien hospitalier - Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Bordeaux - Examinateur
Charcot-Marie-Tooth Diseases (CMTs) are among the most frequently diagnosed hereditary neuropathies with an estimated prevalence of 1 in 2,500 individuals worldwide1. CMT2A, the most frequent subtype of axonal CMT2, is mainly inherited by autosomal dominance, and is characterized by muscle weakness and loss of sensation in the body's extremities. Research over the years have revealed that CMT2A is caused by mutations in Mitofusin 2 (MFN2), an essential mitochondrial dynamin-related GTPase that is responsible for the outer mitochondrial membrane fusion2. Besides its crucial role in the maintenance of the morphological network of the mitochondria, MFN2 also plays a role in mitochondrial mobility, mitochondrial DNA content maintenance, oxidative phosphorylation, and mitochondria-endoplasmic reticulum juxtaposition. Despite the development of several bio-informatic tools to predict the impact and pathogenicity of Single Nucleotide Variants (SNVs), their interpretation remains challenging, with many SNVs still being classified as ‘variants of unknown significance'. Moreover, the consequences of MFN2 mutations at the functional level still remain unknown for most variants. For those reasons, a better understanding of MFN2 and its role in pathogenicity is necessary for the development and the implementation of a diagnostic tool for CMT2. From that context, two main questions were raised and are therefore at the core of my PhD work and journey. What novel imaging technique can be developed for a better characterization of the morphological alterations in the mitochondrial network and could possibly be developed into a diagnostic cell assay for CMT2A? What are the possible mechanisms alongside fusion capacity that are altered in pathogenicity at the molecular level resulting from MFN2 mutations? Three main objectives were decided upon to answer the raised inquiries 1- Investigating the fusion capacity of MFN2 variants identified in CMT2A patients/families 2- Setting up a multimodal approach that will study mitochondrial morphology as well as the other MFN2-related functions 3- Developing non-invasive and label-free approaches to image mitochondrial dynamics My thesis work revealed that a cellular assay based on a categorical assessment of the mitochondrial morphology upon expressing MFN2 variants in dMfnKO cells is not strict enough to predict a variant's pathogenicity but could be further developed to meet diagnostic needs. This prompted us to further develop the assay and include a multimodal approach studying the effect that specific MFN2 variants have on the different functions of MFN2. This “upgraded” assay revealed that while benign MFN2 variants were able to rescue mitochondrial fusion, mtDNA content, and mitochondrial respiration comparable to the wild type form, pathogenic variants on another hand were unable to restore them. Moreover, functional characterization of the two isoforms of MFN2 discovered by my host lab was achieved using a single cell approach correlating MFN2 expression level to a variety of mitochondrial network parameters and mtDNA content via fluorescence imaging and analysis. The main finding of the work is that the predominant isoform in the brain, S-MFN2, presents a low efficiency compared to the canonical L-MFN2 for mitochondrial morphology and mtDNA content maintenance.
DEVELOPMENT AND IMPLEMENTATION OF INNOVATIVE TECHNIQUES FOR THE FUNCTIONAL STUDY OF DORSAL HORN NEURONS IN THE MOUSE SPINAL CORD
by Louison BROCHOIRE (Institut des Maladies Neurodégénératives)
The defense will take place at 14h00 - Amphithéatre Centre Broca Nouvelle Aquitaine Centre Broca Nouvelle Aquitaine 146 Rue Léo Saignat, 33000 Bordeaux, France
in front of the jury composed of
- Pascal FOSSAT - Professeur - Université de Bordeaux - Directeur de these
- Matilde CORDERO-ERAUSQUIN - Directrice de recherche - Université de Strasbourg - Rapporteur
- Yves DE KONINCK - Professeur - Université Laval - CoDirecteur de these
- Francesco FERRINI - Professeur associé - Department of Veterinary Sciences, Université de Turin - Rapporteur
- Ipek YALCIN - Directrice de recherche - Université de Strasbourg - Examinateur
- Christian ETHIER - Professeur - Université Laval - Examinateur
Despite the critical role of the dorsal horn of the spinal cord as the first site for processing and relaying somatosensory information, the underlying neuronal circuits and mechanisms remain poorly understood. Recent studies have identified a population of neurons expressing the Tachykinin 1 (Tac1) gene, which are essential for coping behaviors induced by intense noxious stimuli. However, the nature and functional properties of these neurons are still not fully described. In the first part of my PhD, I performed a thorough characterization of Tac1 neurons using slice electrophysiology and in vivo imaging techniques in both naïve and neuropathic conditions following sciatic nerve injury. These results revealed a neuronal population mostly composed of heat-sensitive nociceptors under physiological conditions, whose properties are altered following sciatic nerve injury. On the other hand, most studies investigating spinal cord electrophysiological properties have relied on in vitro preparations or anesthetized animals, using techniques such as whole-cell patch-clamp and extracellular recordings. However, neuronal activity and properties can differ substantially under these conditions compared to the awake state. Studying neuronal activity in awake, freely moving animals has been limited by the technical challenges related to spinal cord mobility, inaccessibility, and small size. In the second part of my PhD, I developed a novel electrode system specifically designed to overcome these limitations and enable multiple single-unit recordings from the spinal dorsal horn in awake mice. Together, these results provide new insights into the role of the dorsal horn in processing somatosensory information in both naïve and neuropathic conditions, under anesthetized as well as awake, freely moving states.
ED Sciences Physiques et de l'Ingénieur
Study of cosmic-ray acceleration regions through their chemical composition
by Aimie CLEMENT (Laboratoire d'Astrophysique de Bordeaux)
The defense will take place at 14h00 - Amphithéâtre du B18N Bâtiment B18N Allée Geoffroy Saint-Hilaire 33615 Pessac
in front of the jury composed of
- Valentine WAKELAM - Directrice de recherche - Laboratoire d'Astrophysique de Bordeaux - Directeur de these
- Audrey COUTENS - Astronome adjointe - Institut de Recherche en Astophysique et Planétologie - Rapporteur
- Alexandre MARCOWITH - Directeur de recherche - Laboratoire Univers et Particules de Montpellier - Rapporteur
- Marianne LEMOINE-GOUMARD - Directrice de recherche - Laboratoire de Physique des Deux Infinis de Bordeaux - CoDirecteur de these
- Emeric BRON - Astronome adjoint - Observatoire de Paris - Examinateur
- Denis DUMORA - Professeur des universités - Laboratoire de Physique des Deux Infinis de Bordeaux - Examinateur
Cosmic rays are high-energy charged particles, mainly protons and atomic nuclei. At low energies (E < 1 GeV), cosmic rays ionize the interstellar gas and thereby play a fundamental role in the chemistry and dynamics of the interstellar medium. At high energies (E > 1 GeV) cosmic-ray protons produce gamma-rays by proton-proton interaction. Understanding where these particles are accelerated and how they propagate is a key question in astrophysics. Supernova remnants are suspected to be the main sources of Galactic cosmic rays through diffusive shock acceleration. A molecular cloud located in the vicinity of a cosmic ray accelerator such as an SNR provides a dense target reservoir for the freshly accelerated cosmic-ray particles to interact with, producing both gamma-ray emission and chemical reactions in the gas and dust. This thesis focuses on the HB3/W3 complex, a unique region where the middle-aged supernova remnant HB3 interacts with the molecular cloud and active massive star-forming region W3. Using radio observations obtained with the IRAM 30m and Yebes 40m telescopes, we derived molecular abundances in the interacting region and modeled them with the three-phase gas-grain astrochemical code Nautilus. This allowed us to constrain the cosmic-ray ionization rate of H2 (𝜁H2), a key parameter governing the chemical impact of low-energy CRs. In parallel, we analyzed 16 years of gamma-ray data from the Fermi-LAT telescope, using the latest Pass 8R3 instrument response functions to perform a refined morphological and spectral study of HB3 and W3 above 1 GeV. The spectra of both systems above 50 MeV display a clear pion-decay signature, confirming the hadronic nature of the emission and the acceleration of protons in the region. By combining astrochemical modeling and gamma-ray analysis, this work provides new and complementary constraints on the acceleration, propagation, and interaction of cosmic rays in the HB3/W3 region.
Design of a self-learning, human-centered digital twin for sociotechnical systems: Towards augmented organizations – Application to helicopter engine maintenance
by Quentin LORENTE (ESTIA-Recherche)
The defense will take place at 9h00 - Amphi MARI ESTIA 1 Technopole Izarbel 92 allée Théodore Monod 64210 BIDART
in front of the jury composed of
- Christophe MERLO - Professeur - Université de Bordeaux - Directeur de these
- Marija JANKOVIC - Professeure des universités - CentraleSupélec - Rapporteur
- Bertrand ROSE - Professeur des universités - Université de Strasbourg - Rapporteur
- Anne-Marie BARTHE-DELANOË - Maîtresse assistante - IMT Mines Albi - Examinateur
- Benoît LE BLANC - Professeur des universités - Bordeaux INP - Examinateur
- Guy André BOY - Professeur des universités - ESTIA - CoDirecteur de these
This thesis addresses the field of aeronautical maintenance, a domain characterized by high technical and organizational complexity. Collective decisions in this context are shaped not only by technical data from machines but also by the cognitive and social dynamics among actors. To address these challenges, a prototype of a self-learning, human-centered digital twin, called SOMA (Organic System for Adaptive Mediation), was designed. SOMA is based on a multi-agent model inspired by cognitive sciences, combining cognitivist and connectionist approaches. This framework enables the orchestration of interactions between human and machine agents within a digital space that structures collaborative decision-making. Two major contributions support this system: • The introduction of stigmergic indicators, which capitalize on past experiences and strengthen organizational memory ; • The development of a collective cognition evaluation tool, the Collective Cognition Scale (CCS), inspired by usability scales. These contributions were validated through a series of user-centered experiments. The results demonstrate high usability of the prototype (with strong SUS scores), a measurable influence of stigmergic indicators on choices and decision times, and a perceived improvement in collective cognition as assessed through the CCS. These findings open avenues for future research on the generalization of stigmergic indicators, the refinement of the CCS tool, and the exploration—through simulations—of the conditions required for the emergence of robust collective cognition within complex organizations. This exploration is made possible by the human behaviors revealed through experiments, which can be implemented in multi-agent systems. Ultimately, this work outlines a prospective horizon: that of an augmented organization, capable of continuous learning, where the interconnection of human and machine agents may progressively foster the emergence of a form of organizational consciousness.
ED Sciences et environnements
Marine parasite diversity: study of cockle/trematode systems and their phenology using an environmental DNA-type approach
by Leslie STOUT (Environnements et Paléoenvironnements Océaniques et Continentaux)
The defense will take place at 14h00 - Salle de conférence Bâtiment Sud, 2ème étage, Station Marine d'Arcachon, 2 rue du Professeur Jolyet, 33120 Arcachon
in front of the jury composed of
- Xavier DE MONTAUDOUIN - Professeur des universités - Université de Bordeaux - Directeur de these
- Isabelle ARZUL - Cadre de recherche - IFREMER - Rapporteur
- Laure GUILLOU - Directrice de recherche - CNRS - Rapporteur
- David THIELTGES - Honorary Professor and Senior Research Scientist - NIOZ Royal Netherlands Institute for Sea Research - University of Groningen - Examinateur
- Antoine GREMARE - Professeur des universités - Université de Bordeaux - Examinateur
- Aurélie CHAMBOUVET - Chargée de recherche - CNRS - CoDirecteur de these
Digenean trematodes are among the most important groups of macroparasites in marine environments and play an important role in ecosystem functioning. Understanding their ecology requires accurate species identification and detection. However, conventional methods based on morphology have limitations, particularly for differentiating morphologically similar or cryptic species, identifying undescribed parasite stages and detecting early-stage or low intensity infections of hosts. As a result, life cycles and infection phenology often remain unresolved. Molecular approaches have the potential to overcome these barriers and help fill these ecological knowledge gaps. This thesis investigated how molecular tools can complement or surpass morphological identification in the diverse trematode community infecting the edible cockle (Cerastoderma edule), a key bivalve species of ecological and economic importance in European intertidal ecosystems, such as Arcachon Bay (France). Field surveys, laboratory experiments as well as morphological and molecular analyses were undertaken to (1) determine the reliability of morphological identification through comparison with molecular phylogenetic analyses of trematodes infecting cockles across Europe; (2) apply a targeted environmental DNA (eDNA) approach to elucidate the life cycle of the himasthlid Curtuteria arguinae by identifying its unknown hosts and assess the environmental drivers of its transmission to cockles; (3) improve detection of Bucephalus minimus sporocyst infections, a highly pathogenic bucephalid trematode, using species-specific molecular assays in order to describe its infection phenology. The European survey revealed 13 trematode species in cockles by morphology, but phylogenetic analyses uncovered 17 distinct genetic lineages. While some species were correctly identified morphologically, many were prone to misidentification or showed unexpected, potentially cryptic diversity, especially within the Himasthlidae family. This work clarified the strengths and limitations of current morphological methods of species identification and revealed that unknown infections might be more common than expected. The DNA dataset generated here also provided a solid foundation for the design of species-specific molecular tools. Building on this, a targeted qPCR-based eDNA approach allowed detection of C. arguinae DNA in water and fecal samples. The needle snail (Bittium reticulatum) and the oystercatcher (Haematopus ostralegus) were thereby identified respectively as the first intermediate host and as the definitive host, elucidating the life cycle for the first time. Experiments showed cercarial emergence was strongly temperature-dependent, driving seasonal transmission to cockles in the field. These results explain the parasite's southern distribution and suggest potential northward expansion under climate change. Finally, molecular detection of B. minimus in cockles by species-specific qPCR and dPCR assays revealed substantially higher prevalence than microscopy, allowing the first description of infection phenology in Arcachon Bay. Infection dynamics were linked to cockle size and life history, as well as seasonal migration of the definitive host, the European seabass (Dicentrarchus labrax). Altogether, this thesis demonstrates the value of molecular methods for trematode identification and detection. These case studies show how molecular approaches, such as targeted eDNA approaches, can help resolve life cycles, detect inconspicuous infections and improve understanding of parasite phenology. Beyond the cockle-trematode systems studied here, this work highlights the broader value of molecular tools for assessing parasite prevalence, distribution and transmission and better integrating trematodes in our understanding of marine ecosystem functioning.
ED Sociétés, Politique, Santé Publique
PRIMARY SCHOOL TEACHERS AND SPECIAL EDUCATIONAL NEEDS: INCLUSIVE PROFESSIONAL ETHICS AND TEAMWORK
by Karine BIROT (Laboratoire Cultures, Education, Sociétés)
The defense will take place at 14h00 - Salle des disputes INSPE de l'Académie de Bordeaux 160, av de Verdun - BP 90 152 33705 Mérignac
in front of the jury composed of
- Patrice BOURDON - Professeur des universités - Université de Nantes - Rapporteur
- Martin STROUHAL - Maître de conférences - Université Charles de Prague - Rapporteur
- Magdalena KOHOUT-DIAZ - Professeure des universités - Université de Bordeaux et INSPE Bordeaux - Directeur de these
- Alexandre PLOYE - Professeur des universités - CY Cergy Paris Université - Examinateur
This doctoral research focuses on the process of inclusive education in primary schools, with particular emphasis on professional ethics and teamwork. Teaching is approached as a complex activity rooted in the quality of pedagogical relationships, guided by humanistic values such as empathy, attentiveness, care, and justice. Yet, while indispensable, these values also expose teachers to ethical dilemmas in their daily interactions (Prairat, 2014; Marsollier, 2011; Gohier et al., 2010; Legault, 1999). The schooling of pupils with special educational needs (SEN) in mainstream settings often relies on specific arrangements designed to support their success (Reverdy, 2017; Tremblay, 2015). However, the implementation of such measures cannot be reduced to a mere technical dimension: it mobilizes collective professional practices requiring cooperation between teachers as well as partnerships with families and health or social care professionals. While these collaborations are a key driver of inclusive approaches, they also give rise to tensions and value conflicts (Mérini & Thomazet, 2014; Barrère, 2014), placing teaching teams before often complex choices. The scientific literature has devoted little attention to these situations from the perspective of professional ethics in inclusive contexts. This research therefore seeks to contribute by examining how teachers negotiate, individually and collectively, the dilemmas generated by inclusive schooling. The central research question is thus formulated as follows: What are the effects of schooling pupils with SEN in mainstream settings on teachers' professional practices, particularly regarding teamwork and professional ethics ? The dissertation addresses this question in three parts: a theoretical framework on inclusive education and professional ethics; a hybrid methodology combining quantitative and qualitative approaches; and an empirical analysis highlighting the effects of inclusive perspectives on teaching practices and the dilemmas they entail. In doing so, the research aims to deepen the understanding of the concrete effects of inclusive schooling on professional practices, underlining the ethical and collaborative challenges they involve.
PERI-METROPOLITAN TERRITORIES AT THE THRESHOLDS OF ANTHROPOCENE, THE INVENTION OF THE SOCIAL COMMUNITY. A COMPARATIVE STUDY OF TERRITORIAL PROJECTS IN THE BORDEAUX (FRANCE) AND MALAGA (SPAIN) PERIPHERIES
by Adrien GONZALEZ (Centre Emile Durkheim)
The defense will take place at 14h00 - Amphi 3 740 Cours de la Libération, BER, 33400 TALENCE
in front of the jury composed of
- Guy TAPIE - Professeur émérite - Ecole Nationale Supérieure d'Architecture et de Paysage de Bordeaux - Directeur de these
- Christine SCHAUT - Professeure des universités - Faculté d'architecture La Cambre-Horta de l'Université Libre de Bruxelles - Rapporteur
- Laurent DEVISME - Professeur des universités - Ecole Nationale Supérieure d'Architecture de Nantes - Rapporteur
- Nathalie BLANC - Professeure - Université Paris Cité - Site Diderot - Examinateur
- Eric MACé - Professeur des universités - Université de Bordeaux - Examinateur
- Olivier CHADOIN - Professeur - Ecole Nationale Supérieure d'Architecture et de Paysage de Bordeaux - CoDirecteur de these
This thesis examines, from the perspective of urban sociology, how peri-metropolitan territories engage with environmental and climate issues. The aim, along with the idea of nature—traditionally marginal in the urban realm—is to collectively redefine their relationship with metropolitan areas and envision a viable planetary future. We observe how stakeholders readjust their position vis-à-vis institutionalized metropolises committed to resilience, and how they set the priorities of social projects in territories marked by dispersed housing and growing mobility. The revelation of the Anthropocene constitutes, in urban debates, a paradigmatic rupture fostering a reformulation of spatialities and of urban societies, which have become the primary human environment. For metropolises, and for neighboring territories in their orbit, this awareness acts as an injunction to revise territorial trajectories, understood as governed planning, social reorganization, and transformations of dwelling practices. Our work relies on a comparative international approach across two peri-metropolitan contexts exposed to tangible human impacts and climate phenomena of the Anthropocene. In southwestern France, the Communauté de Communes Convergence Garonne, once scarred by intensive sand and gravel extraction from the Garonne riverbed, is now a corridor of mobility and settlement for populations arriving from Bordeaux. In Andalusia, southern Spain, the Comarca del Valle del Guadalhorce, traversed by the Río Grande, is experiencing green-growth megaprojects—promoted by the EU and the Junta de Andalucía—on farmland and water reserves crucial for both the valley and the Málaga metropolis, within an increasingly extreme climate. Semi-structured interviews (60 across both sites), site observation, content analysis of planning documents and websites, and press reviews formed the core methods of investigation. In these territories, nature is conceived as a cultivated alibi to assert local sovereignty against metropolitan planning practices—particularly the framing of nature as an urban resource—that exacerbate social inequalities. Through specific environmental uses, stakeholders revive traditional territorial representations, especially the commons, underpinning a reterritorialization around new action frameworks. This mobilizes multiple fields of expertise, intrinsic to the examination of natura naturata, and induces a redistributive deconstruction of local governance, characterized by shared interests and multiterritoriality. In France, the thematic scattering of competences and the emergence of dedicated expertise construct among stakeholders a negotiated narrative: that of a perpetual and plural natural identity, which contributes to metropolitan dynamics. In Spain, the concentration of competences within the Junta ensures institutional responsiveness—an asset in a critical climate—but tends to dispossess the vecinos of their pueblo. Citizen responses, shaped by cultural and ideological inputs of foreign populations, transform local pueblismo into an inter-municipal territorial community. Our argument unfolds in four stages. The first revisits metropolization, the project-based development of secondary European cities at the millennium, and the evolution of peri-metropolitan territories. The second and third detail, through the case studies, the contexts, projects, stakeholder strategies, and controversies. The fourth offers comparison, showing how institutional upheavals, ecological technocratization, and strategic uses of nature foster transversal appropriations of territory, producing an endogenous and multiterritorial narrative.