What kind of knowledge is needed for social-ecological transformations? How can the perspectives and experiences of different stakeholder groups be incorporated into this process?
In a complex and interconnected world, knowledge is the key to social change. However, dealing with ignorance and misinformation poses growing challenges for society, politics, and science.
The role of sustainability science is to ask who needs which knowledge, how this knowledge can be created collaboratively with different disciplines and practitioners, and how false information, such as fake news, affects transformative processes. Addressing power dynamics is also essential, as they determine whose knowledge is heard and whose voices are marginalized.
“The full potential of knowledge can only be harnessed in current transformation processes if it is inclusive, equitable, and transformative.”
Dr. Michael Kreß-Ludwig, Head of Research Unit Transdisciplinarity
It is the responsibility of science to work together with society and politics to generate knowledge for the transition toward sustainability. In our transdisciplinary research, we integrate the everyday and practical knowledge of societal actors with scientific questions and findings. In doing so, we also examine the role of different forms of knowledge, including contested knowledge and ignorance.
Our goal is not only to produce scientifically sound insights but also to ensure that knowledge is inclusive, equitable, and transformative. We explore the relationship between knowledge and social-ecological transformations, focusing on how knowledge is created, shared, and used—whether to drive change or hinder it.
Additionally, we address issues of power and justice within research processes and the exchange of knowledge between science and practice. We also examine the opportunities and risks of digitalization and artificial intelligence, particularly regarding how they influence the creation, dissemination, and application of knowledge.
Using new and innovative knowledge transfer formats, the project is developing sustainable solution strategies for a system change in viticulture in the Rheingau and its species-rich cultural landscape.
