Topics

Our topics at a glance

Working in agile, interdisciplinary teams, ISOE scientists develop fundamental knowledge for sustainable change, including biodiversity, chemical risks, climate adaptation, knowledge and participation, land use, mobility, sufficiency, transformation and water. They work closely with local stakeholders to develop sustainable and equitable solutions that are widely accepted.

Change is Possible
Focustopic 2026

Change is Possible —

Sustainability is under pressure. With its focus topic “Change is Possible,” ISOE shows how transformations can succeed.

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Copenhagen, Denmark - August 23, 2019: Aerial drone view of Superkilen Park in Norrebro district. Designed by the arts group Superflex.
  • Biodiversity

    Biodiversity —

    Where do the societal causes of biodiversity loss lie? How can biodiversity be protected more effectively in the future? And what encourages people’s willingness to support processes of change?

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    Trauerschweber (Hemipenthes morio) sitzt auf einer Blüte des Kalifornischen Mohns.
  • Chemical Risks

    Chemical Risks —

    What effects do chemicals such as PFAS and microplastics have on health, ecosystems and the economy? How can understanding of and sensitivity to pollutant risks be improved?

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    Tractor spraying citrus
  • Climate Adaptation

    Climate Adaptation —

    How can municipalities better prepare for heat, heavy rain and drought? What support do they need for climate adaptation?

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    Begrünte Hausfassade
  • Knowledge and Participation

    Knowledge and Participation —

    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?

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    Overhead capture of a busy brainstorming session covered with colorful sticky notes and papers across the table surface
  • Land Use

    Land Use —

    What is increasing the pressure on land resources? How can land use be sustainable and fair when land, water and biodiversity are claimed at the same time?

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    Farmers in the field use advanced technology.
  • Mobility

    Mobility —

    How can mobility be made sustainable for the future? Why is the mobility and transport transition not progressing? How can conflicts and obstacles on the path to a post-fossil mobility culture be overcome?

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    People crossing street Cycling and Walking Traffic sign Smart city Urban lifestyle outdoor
  • Sufficiency

    Sufficiency —

    How much do we really need for a good life? Which services and infrastructures enable a sufficient standard of living, consumption, or nutrition?

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    Rear view of family with small daughter on a walk in autumn nature.
  • Transformation

    Transformation —

    Can sustainability be achieved through technological developments alone? How can transformations towards sustainability be shaped in the face of escalating crises and conflicts?

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    Senior female entrepreneur pointing by engineer standing near solar panels in field
  • Water

    Water —

    What effects does climate change have on our water resources? Is water scarcity also a threat in Germany? What challenges do water management and water infrastructure face?

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    Meer, unter Wasser, tauchen, Luftblasen