SEVEN was founded to address climate change, which is deeply embedded in economic, legal, technological, social, and ecological systems. This requires approaches that cross disciplinary boundaries and connect academic research with societal practice. We use our University of Amsterdam-wide knowledge to support climate change mitigation and adaptation and strengthen the resilience of vulnerable societies, in Europe and globally.

The name SEVEN reflects both the ambition and structure of our institute. It draws on the principle of thinking seven generations ahead, inspired by the Haudenosaunee (Iroquois) tradition, which considers how today’s decisions shape the lives of those who come after us. It also refers to all seven faculties of the University of Amsterdam whose expertise we bring together.