Our research embodies inter- and transdisciplinary principles to solve today’s environmental and societal challenges. We conduct research using concepts and principles from knowledge exchange and mobilization theory, social ecology, and human dimensions research. Our work spans the interface of natural and social sciences, as well as science and policy. We are committed to knowledge mobilization including co-producing knowledge, co-creating research agendas and science communication.
Bridging the Knowledge-Action Gap for Conservation and Natural Resource Management
Overview of theme:
Mobilizing evidence for decision-making, management and conservation practices is important for implementing effective solutions to increasingly complex environmental, societal and policy problems such as climate change, changing socio-demographics, and biodiversity loss. Using evidence, however, remains a significant challenge. One of our major research themes is to better understand the gap between knowledge and action, and how we can bridge that gap to bring relevant and best-available knowledge into policy and practice.
The Human Dimensions of Natural Resources Management
Overview of theme:
Conservation and natural resource management have traditionally been dominated by knowledge informed by natural sciences. The natural sciences have often revealed potential solutions, but implementation of solutions require the social sciences because we deal with humans and society. The human dimensions are thus critical for ensuring that conservation and natural resource management strategies are effective. Studying people matters if we are to solve today’s increasingly complex problems.
Integrated Social Ecological Research
Overview of theme:
Social ecology is the study of the relationships between people and their environment, often the interdependence of people, collectives, and institutions. In our lab, we integrate approaches from both social and ecological (and more broadly environmental) sciences to tackle complex environmental and conservation issues. We do this by collaborating with academics and non-academics towards a solution-oriented approach. It is not possible for one discipline or knowledge system to solve wicked problems. By working together with relevant stakeholders and rightsholders, and with different knowledge systems and disciplines, we strive for more socially and ecologically robust solutions