Climate Action Plan case study: Climate System Mapping charts pathways to change
- Written by
Professor Ramia Mazé (LCC) and Dr Niki Wallace (CCW) discuss a pilot research project to identify and map ways that UAL can build positive connections and change in the interest of climate justice.
We are working in a cross-UAL research team with Professor Dilys Williams (LCF), Domenica Landin (CCW) and Niamh Tuft (UAL). To pilot a project which studies the University itself as a system, we are drawing on the fields of systems theory, transition studies and design. By charting the climate-related perceptions, practices and actions of different parts of our system, we aim to find pathways for change.
We are studying ourselves as a system, how we relate to larger systems such as higher education, as well as three sub-systems within the University. Sub-systems in this case refer to groups and departments in Library Services, Research Management and Administration, and Student Marketing, Recruitment and Admissions. Research methods include literature reviews, document analysis and participatory action research, a method that emphasises the participation of affected communities. The research includes focus group and workshop sessions with staff and students, and climate and higher education experts.
This research will:
- create an evidence-based systems map of the historical and current ways of working in the areas of environment, climate and climate justice within UAL
- identify visions, key ‘leverage points’ and ambitious ‘transition pathways’ for action (for example, policies or projects) beyond the near term
- develop research that documents processes, methods and toolkits for systems change
- demonstrate the potential to adapt and apply the methodology to UAL priorities, supporting our pledge to becoming a social purpose university.
The project, which runs until April 2024, will produce a set of recommendations, alongside a system mapping toolkit.