Navigating complexity: A guide and tools for interdisciplinary research on lower-carbon practices

Area of Science:

• Social Sciences
• Environmental Studies
• Climate Change Research

Background:

• Lower-carbon practices exhibit social complexity, challenging traditional single-discipline research approaches.
• Existing methodologies may be inadequate for capturing the diverse factors influencing societal engagement with climate solutions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To bridge the gap in climate research methodology by providing practical tools for interdisciplinary analysis.
• To enable researchers to move beyond theoretical limitations and address the social complexity of climate action.

Main Methods:

• Development of a factor landscape to map influences on responses to key lower-carbon practices.
• Compilation of relevant theoretical frameworks for interdisciplinary analysis.
• Guidance on interdisciplinary research processes for climate action studies.

Main Results:

• A comprehensive framework for analyzing the social factors shaping engagement with lower-carbon practices.
• Identification of key theoretical approaches applicable to interdisciplinary climate research.
• Practical guidance to facilitate context-sensitive, nuanced research on climate solutions.

Conclusions:

• Interdisciplinary approaches are crucial for understanding and supporting effective climate action.
• The provided tools enhance the ability to capture the social complexity of lower-carbon practices.
• This research facilitates more effective climate strategies across diverse social systems.