Our research group investigates sustainability transitions as complex socio-economic processes shaped by economic dynamics, technological change, and socio-political interventions. Alongside quantitative modeling, we employ participatory and co-design approaches as one important element of our broader methodological toolkit. These approaches help us better capture real-world perspectives and enhance the relevance of our research for policy- and decision-making.

Through qualitative methods such as surveys, semi-structured interviews, and stakeholder workshops, we engage with actors from public administration, civil society, industry, and research. Through this inclusive process, we explore how different stakeholder groups perceive alternative transition pathways and their associated trade-offs, generating insights into how we can pursue (bioeconomy, agricultural, or decarbonization) pathways that are environmentally sustainable, socially just, and economically viable. Particular attention is given to issues of socio-political feasibility and desirability, which are often difficult to capture through modeling alone.

Participatory scenario co-design is used to complement our economic modeling work. Rather than relying exclusively on model-driven or expert-selected scenarios, we collaborate with stakeholders to develop shared storylines about possible futures. These discussions help surface assumptions, highlight conflicts and synergies, and identify priorities that matter for implementation on the ground.

Insights generated through these processes are systematically fed back into our economic modeling activities. Qualitative knowledge informs scenario design, model assumptions, and the interpretation of results, contributing to greater transparency, credibility, and policy relevance. By combining economic modeling with participatory methods, our group aims to produce research that is better aligned with real-world sustainability challenges.