Unraveling complex causal processes that affect sustainability requires more integration between empirical and modeling approaches.

ABSTRACT: Scientists seek to understand the causal processes that generate sustainability problems and determine effective solutions. Yet, causal inquiry in nature-society systems is hampered by conceptual and methodological challenges that arise from nature-society interdependencies and the complex dynamics they create. Here, we demonstrate how sustainability scientists can address these challenges and make more robust causal claims through better integration between empirical analyses and process- or agent-based modeling. To illustrate how these different epistemological traditions can be integrated, we present four studies of air pollution regulation, natural resource management, and the spread of COVID-19. The studies show how integration can improve empirical estimates of causal effects, inform

SUBMITTER: Schluter M 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC10576139 | biostudies-literature | 2023 Oct

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature