Programme on Ecosystem Change and Society (PECS)

In 2005, The Millennium Ecosystem Assessment (MA) called for a better understanding of how social-ecological systems evolve over time. The result of the discussions was the establishment of the Programme on Ecosystem Change and Society (PECS), which is hosted by the Stockholm Resilience Centre.

PECS’s research follows two broad approaches: The first approach compares place-based case studies from around the world to reveal general the behaviours and dynamics of these systems

These case studies use different methods because of specific contexts and histories. One ambition is to build a central database of various methods employed in the case studies to support workshops and understand how different methods converge.

The second approach concerns the development of a set of “fast-track” research activities build on, but are not limited to, the endorsed PECS place-based case studies. One example is the Seeds of a Good Anthropocene project, which focuses on collecting visions of the future that are socially and ecologically desirable, just, and sustainable.

PECS will also sponsor broader-themed workshops to develop cross-cutting interests that contribute to a wide range of research on social–ecological systems. Because PECS is envisioned as a bottom-up, researcher-driven platform, diverse inputs and leadership will be encouraged as PECS develops.

PECS is a Future Earth core-project (jointly sponsored by ICSU and UNESCO).