×J5. Science for sustainability: learning how to successfully use modelling and simulation to promote sustainability at the science-for-policy and science-for-management interfaces

Achieving, or at least improving, the long-term sustainability of our societies remains a wicked problem with scientists, policy-makers and managers all grappling with complexity, uncertainty, plural values and the influence of political power. While considerable resources have been devoted to projects developing research-based solutions for sustainability problems, understanding how their outputs become outcomes and impacts (if any) remains challenging.

This session seeks to provide a forum to improve our understanding of how theoretical framings, data, computer-based tools and the research processes can best be combined to lead to successful sustainability outcomes. Through peer-to-peer learning, the session wants to generate a better understanding of what success looks like, but also to provide a forum in which to learn from research initiatives which have fallen short of our aspirations.

Within the broad scope of 'science-for-sustainability', the session welcomes papers addressing any and all aspects of inter- and transdisciplinary sustainability research and consultancy. This would include, but is not limited to, modelling and decision support for management or policy making, science and technology studies, participatory and deliberative social science or policy analysis. The session seeks to promote dialog and potential collaborations between the natural, social and computational sciences – working across disciplinary and geographical boundaries to exchange relevant insights to promote more effective science for governance and decision making.

Papers can choose to focus on methods, tools, research processes or approaches to stakeholder engagement across both the science-policy and science-management interfaces. Empirical studies, or findings from experiential learning and reflexive or critical studies are encouraged. Particularly welcome are papers jointly authored or presented by non-academic research partners who can reflect on the value of research-based analysis and the ways in which evidence is used.

Key topics: Sustainability, Policy, Management, Transdisciplinary