Center for Environment and Sustainable development

The Centre for Environment and Sustainable Development is dedicated to conducting disciplinary and interdisciplinary research that addresses the complex relationships between natural systems, human societies, and long-term environmental change. 

Researchers at this Centre work on a wide range of issues, from climate change and resource depletion to biodiversity loss and ecosystem degradation. By combining environmental science and social science with law and policy research, the Centre aims to generate actionable solutions that can guide decision-making at local, national, and global levels. By exploring the intersections between science, technology, and public policy, the Centre promotes environmental stewardship while fostering sustainable development that meets the needs of present and future generations. 

The Centre places particular emphasis on the legal and human dimensions of sustainability, with research focusing on environmental law, climate justice, and the protection of vulnerable communities. It explores how legal frameworks can support equitable access to natural resources, safeguard biodiversity, and ensure accountability in environmental governance. In addition to its technical research, the Centre places a strong emphasis on the social and ethical dimensions of sustainability. It conducts studies on sustainable practices, community engagement and governance systems, while also addressing the moral implications of climate change and environmental justice. At the same time, researchers investigate the physical processes shaping the planet, with expertise in geomorphology, hydrogeology, sea-level change, natural hazards and environmental risks, such as floods and erosions. 

The Centre also hosts the Ocean Institute, created in 2023, a hub for interdisciplinary research, focusing on molecular biology, biochemistry, marine acoustics and AI techniques for ocean science. 

This integrative and multidisciplinary approach ensures that the Centre’s work is not only scientifically grounded but also socially responsible and policy-relevant—making a meaningful contribution to global efforts toward sustainability and the achievement of the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals.