Showcasing the potentials of agent-based modelling for Industrial Ecology research: challenges and perspectives for future pathways (13:00)
Session Organiser: Life-Cycle Thinking for Complex-Systems Initiative (Gustavo Gallegos, Ryu Koide, Jonathan Cohen, Tianran Ding, Kasper Lange, Michał Bączyk)
Institution: Luxembourg Institute of Science and Technology, National Institute for Environmental Studies / Technical University of Delft, Chalmers University of Technology, Amsterdam University of Applied Sciences, Utrecht University
Location/Local Time: Amsterdam, Luxembourg, Stockholm time (1-2pm)
Abstract:
Production and consumption systems are socio-technical systems that are now more complex and intertwined than ever. Studying the sustainability of such systems can be challenging since aspects like heterogeneous patterns, non-linear dynamics and emergent behaviours of consumers and stakeholders add another layer of complexity.
The application of complexity-oriented methods, such as Agent-Based Models (ABMs), can address many of these aspects; however, these methodologies are far from being mainstream in the discipline of industrial ecology due to multiple challenges, including model linkages, analytical frameworks, and data limitations.
In this session, we will briefly introduce this approach to those who want to learn more about the ABM paradigm by showcasing three case studies that contribute to assessing the sustainability impacts of socio-technical systems. The presented models, techniques, and learned lessons will spark the discussion regarding opportunities for further applications/extension and the challenges of adopting such methodologies to address current research inquiries.
Overall, the aim of the session is to reflect on how to mainstream methods and best practices across the discipline of Industrial Ecology, with an interest in adopting complexity-oriented approaches. Such a session will provide a virtual space to engage with fellow modellers and further discuss methods and applications to study sustainable practices.
Session Details:
The session is composed of the following presentations and interactive discussions:
Introduction (5 min)
Why do we need complexity science methods in industrial ecology?: overview of agent-based modelling and simulation methods
Introduction of Life-Cycle Thinking for Complex-Systems Initiative
(moderator: Gustavo Larrea, Luxembourg Institute of Science and Technology)
Presentation 1 (12 min)
Where if? Using spatial, building-stock-driven simulations to explore construction circularity strategies in Gothenburg, Sweden (presenter: Jonathan Cohen, Chalmers University of Technology)
Presentation 2 (12 min)
Coupling agent-based modelling with territorial LCA to support agricultural land-use planning (presenter: Tianran Ding, Luxembourg Institute of Science and Technology)
Presentation 3 (12 min)
Empirical agent-based modelling of circular business models: incorporating dynamic LCA and MFA from a consumption perspective (presenter: Ryu Koide, National Institute for Environmental Studies / Technical University of Delft)
Interactive session & discussion (15 min)
Key takeaways and Q&A on presentations
Interactive session focusing on expectations, limitations, and ways forward
Session registration
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