Participative modeling for transitioning towards a circular construction material industry
In my PhD project, I am looking at the transition towards a circular economy in Switzerland by working with industry partners, experts and policy makers to create a shared vision of this transition and to develop a coherent set of policies.
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Why did you decide to do a PhD in system dynamics?
Today's world is complex, fast-paced and faced with enormous challenges, yet decisions are often based on linear mental models. To me, System Dynamic provides the tools to systemically identify long-term consequences of decisions and to determine leverage points towards more sustainable pathways.
Applying system dynamics to build simulation models improves complex thinking, systemic learning and enhances decision-making capabilities, which makes it not only a professional but also a private asset. I believe that the way people think needs to change to tackle the grand challenge ahead, considering feedbacks and long-term consequences is certainly a good start to do so.
Short summary of PhD project
As part of the CUBIC project (Co-Evolution of Business Strategies in material and construction industries and public policies) I am looking at the transition towards a circular economy in Switzerland. We work with industry partners, experts and policy makers in Switzerland to create a shared vision of this transition and to develop a coherent set of policies.
System Dynamics is my Methodology of choice, as I want to understand the causal mechanisms that act as drivers and barriers for the construction material industry. I am especially interested in the feedbacks between business models and public policies, as well as the contribution of System Dynamics to govern this system.
Daniel Kliem defended his doctoral thesis on 17.12.2021:
Kliem, D. (2021). System Dynamics in Transition Management: Participative modeling for transitioning towards a circular construction material industry [Doctoral thesis, University of Bergen]. https://bora.uib.no/bora-xmlui/handle/11250/2839017.
