The economics of resilient and sustainable social-ecological systems (EconSES)
Why are some social-ecological systems managed sustainably while others are trapped in overexploitation? We study the role of institutions and policies in providing answers.
Marine environments, forests, grazing lands and fisheries are under growing pressure from climate change and overexploitation, yet there are also notable success stories of sustainable management and ecosystem restoration. Understanding what makes the difference is at the heart of our work. Whether a system is used sustainably depends on the institutions that link human behaviour and nature, from protected areas and property rights to communal social norms. Ecological tipping points can lock systems into degraded states, while social tipping points can open windows for change. Combining economic theory, empirical analysis and interdisciplinary collaboration, we study which policies enable sustainable use and restoration, who wins and who loses, and how to balance ecosystems, livelihoods and income within a safe and just operating space. Our work focuses on marine systems, ecosystem restoration and behaviour in the commons.
Curious about our projects, publications and team? Visit EconSES at econses.nl
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Research themes
Energy transitions and climate policy economics
We apply the concepts of environmental and resource economics to study the economic and climate impacts of policy responses to climate change.
Behavioural and economic policy for sustainable consumption
We study how stakeholders, such as consumers, businesses and governments can collectively contribute to the transition to more sustainable and circular economies.
Economics of resilient socio-ecological systems
We aim to better understand how sustainability in socio-ecological systems can be achieved and maintained over time.
