Crossroads for climate transformation - Center initiative within the national research program on climate

Formas is announcing funding for interdisciplinary centres focusing on societal transformation to achieve climate goals. The call aims to support interdisciplinary research of the highest quality that meets the need for new knowledge and innovative solutions for society's climate transformation. Climate change will have a profound impact on future societies, and many major decisions made today will determine living conditions for current and future generations. A comprehensive climate transformation, including both emission reductions and adaptation to climate change, is necessary to mitigate negative impacts. The centres are expected to address questions about what a radical transformation in line with climate goals might entail, what conditions are required, how a transformation should be organised, and what choices can and need to be made based on different time horizons and with consideration of other societal challenges. This requires a systems perspective on the transformation. Up to six centres can be funded, and these will address competitiveness, equity and preparedness in relation to a societal transformation that addresses climate change. The centres must be planned, established and run jointly by academia, industry, the public sector and other parts of society. The research must be done in collaboration with relevant actors outside academia to contribute to increased capacity and action. Each centre must involve at least two Swedish higher education institutions or research institutes, and at least two other societal actors from industry, public sector and/or civil society.