Problem solving for a sustainable transition

About this programme

Students work on projects both individually and in groups. They are required to define problems, gather the necessary information, develop problem-solving strategies, select methods, and evaluate, discuss and communicate the results. The course takes a collaborative approach, and during autumn 2026, the Open-Lab Design Thinking method will be introduced. The course will continue its collaboration with the IVL Swedish Environmental Institute and the Baltic Sea Centre. We live in a time when environmental and health issues arising from human-made systems such as transportation, urbanization, and production-consumption affect us and the planet to an extent that has proven challenging for society to handle. The challenges are numerous. In this course, you will learn to find solutions that lead us towards a green transition. Your task will be to find ways forward regarding problems of varying complexity – from the presence of PFAS in goods to enabling a circular economy. Which strategies are most suitable? What does the research say, and how can you best utilize regulation, policy, and technical solutions? In what way can societal actors collectively overcome obstacles and goal conflicts? You will work independently and have ample opportunities to design the cases based on the given framework. You will have lectures, seminars, and continuous feedback from the course instructors and practitioners to assist you. You will address highly relevant problems, all related to ongoing research at the Department of Environmental Science. To enhance their societal relevance and provide ins