Progress beyond the state of the art:
Modules for the WORLD system dynamics modules have been built for steel, the bio economy and food/phosphorous/population. Market development of a fishing quota market in Iceland has been established using network analysis and network statistical modelling. Systems thinking approach was used for conseptualizing a steady state of energy, facilitating a clearer understanding of the desired state of the energy system. A new energy paradigm is being formulated to establish the requirements for the new generation of energy systems models to be in line with the new energy paradigm. Using systems analysis and qualitative research methods involving stakeholder interviews, the dynamics of pilot projects and initiatives in Stockholm and Budapest were studied, in order to determine their efficiency, applicability and upscalability and provide suggestions for solutions to close the urban P cycle in Europe. Further study on resource use has focused on steel and the influence that different levels of supply chain integration exert in the dynamics of decision-making in the European Steel Industry. The proposed direction and strategies of the bio-based economy are promising, but sometimes contradictory, resulting in different views on the actions needed for its premises to be realized. Additionally, current developments adhere largely to the principles of the weak sustainability paradigm. Input/output tables and ecological models have been used to analyze the economic system (Europe) in a dynamic pathway (energy flows, resources stocks, recycling on material availability). A System Dynamics model was used to analyse impacts of substantial investments in photovoltaic capacity on three Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs): SDG 3 on healthy lives and well-being, SDG 4 on education, and SDG 7 on energy. The concept of degrowth is being analysed with respect to limits, utopia, policies and scenarios. A framework is being developed of the social dynamics of economies, to find out how five post-growth economic theories and models describe the social dynamics of post-growth economies. The theories being investigated are: Degrowth, prosperity without growth, steady state economy, sufficiency economy, commons economy, and the Not-for-Profit World model. Lastly several corruption theories are being investigated by using a systems perspective. It offers an opportunity to explore corruption with respect to natural resource exploitation through both individualistic and holistic ontologies and makes it easier to engage in a transdisciplinary dialog on corruption and advance theoretical understanding of it.
Expected results until the end of the project and potential impacts:
All of the 12 ESR projects will contribute to the WORLD system dynamics model and in particular expand the social modules of the model. Once combined the model will be able to give scenarios of natural resouce availability into the future, their effect on the economy and establish leverage points where policies can support sustainable development, and improve wellbeing in Europe and the world as a whole.
