The research

The research in METRIK aims at generating knowledge about the interaction between societal development and technological development with a focus on problems related to environment, energy, nature and resources. The researchers seek to increase impact of the research in academia as well as in society through frequent collaboration with external stakeholders from industry, authorities and NGOs.

The research often bridge between the social sciences and the natural sciences and technology for example in studies of implementation of renewable energy, where technological insight into resource flows and technology assessments is linked to social science knowledge about regulation and planning. Research is carried out using qualitative data as well as with quantitative data including laboratory tests and analyzes.

Research in the METRIK group is conducted within three strategic fields:

Transition to a resource-efficient, green and competitive low-carbon economy: Within this field, research focuses on contributing to the development of the knowledge base for planning aimed at green transition, circular economy, sustainable transport and development of sustainable production and consumption systems.

Protecting and preserving natural capital: Within this field, research is oriented toward the development of the knowledge base, including methods, theories and concepts aimed at the protection and conservation of natural resources, for example by studying methods for reducing plastic pollution or developing conservation agriculture. In addition, studies on how ecosystem functions and services can form the basis for building competences and learning.

Protection against environment-related pressures and risks to health and well-being: Within this field, research is being aimed at reducing the environmental impact of for example the transport sector (planning of public transport, mobility), the waste sector (reduction of micro-waste and utilization of organic waste management) and the agricultural sector closed nutrient circuits and carbon storage in soil).