Addressing climate change requires more than academic research alone, because it is embedded in complex social, economic, legal, and technological systems. Meaningful progress depends on collaboration between researchers and the actors who shape, govern and experience these systems in practice.   

Collaboration is therefore a core element of SEVEN’s approach, and we do so through academic consortia and with societal partners. In these research consortia, our role spans from coordination (such as for the KIN Hub-MRA, the Amsterdam regional hub for climate adaptation) to contributing our systems and participatory approach to wider work packages.  

We also work closely with public authorities, industry partners, civil society organisations, communities and other knowledge holders on tailored research questions. We co-create research goals, develop interventions and generate actionable knowledge that can inform real-world decision-making.  

Our method  

Our signature SEVEN methodology and systems approach specialise in translating complexity into concrete, actionable insights and thereby creating impact. Together with our partners, we refine the research goal and define the right methodology to address it.  

Our researchers analyse exactly what makes change so difficult (“systemic barriers") and what conditions can enable the transition. And that deep understanding of the dynamics at play allows us to identify effective leverage points for change.   

These insights are grounded in academic integrity and rigour, with full scientific breadth of the UvA as a resource. Read more about our method.  

Our collaborations  

Whether it is coordinating regional or academic bodies, experimenting with the effects of consumer choices, or identifying potential positive and negative effects of policy changes, SEVEN's expertise and systems methodology is widely applicable. Browse below for recent examples of our academic and societal collaborations.   

Interested in collaborating with SEVEN? Explore our themes and projects, or contact us to discuss how the SEVEN methodology could benefit your organisation.