With successful work in more than 75 European research projects, our scientists can point to a strong track record in conducting highly effective, interdisciplinary research. We coordinate some of these projects ourselves, taking care of everything from forming the consortium and developing the concept to project management und scientific coordination. In other projects, we provide expertise and diverse experience in specific areas.

Since our non-profit institute was founded in 1995, we have been dedicated to improving environmental policy, sustainable development, and political practice. Our work is characterised by innovative approaches, practical relevance and, above all, a transdisciplinary working style, ensuring its scientific quality and social relevance.

Our research topics

We focus on the socio-ecological dimensions of transformation processes towards a sustainable society. We value a holistic perspective that considers the broader systemic impacts of these changes.

We analyse the socio-economic, legal, and ecological aspects of political action and strategies for environmental improvement.

Our research covers the use of natural resources and their impact on air, water, soil and biodiversity.

We also work on public acceptance, good governance, and successful citizen participation at regional, national, and supranational levels.

Our teams

Our experts cover a wide range of areas, including environmental policy, sustainable development and socio-ecological research. We research, monitor and evaluate policy processes at local, national, European and international levels. Our scientists are supported by our other teams in the implementation of all projects. Our communications experts use sophisticated strategies to ensure the successful dissemination of our research results and the visibility of individual projects. Our event managers develop tailored concepts for conferences, workshops and webinars, integrating innovative, interactive elements to create inspiring events. Our designers visualise our research and our web team supports our projects by establishing their digital presence.

Our partners and networks

The major social challenges of today cannot be solved by one country or group alone. In order to contribute to solving systemic problems, we work with partners from all over the world. To successfully implement our projects, we connect stakeholders from the worlds of science, politics, business and civil society, and we always work in interdisciplinary teams. Through our networks, we bring together diverse perspectives and design participatory processes, such as real-world laboratories and stakeholder dialogues. Our aim is to develop viable solutions together, promote the exchange of knowledge, and support political and practical action effectively.

We are members of both the Ecological Research Network (Ecornet) and the Think Sustainable Europe think tank network.

Our projects

We always start our projects with questions that are relevant to the environment and society. Our fact-based results, such as policy evaluations, meta-studies and discussion papers, provide political decision-makers and other stakeholders with practical insights. Through our work within EU research and innovation funding programmes, we help accelerate Europe's transition to climate neutrality and adaptation, expand knowledge of ecosystem protection and sustainable natural resource use, and strengthen food security.

Here, you can discover a selection of European research projects that our teams have led or have been significantly involved in: