SLU's future platforms

Last changed: 25 November 2019

SLU has four interdisciplinary platforms that integrate different scientific fields. They also improve the collaboration between researchers and society.

The four future platforms are:

An interface between academy and society

The new platform strategy covers the period 2017-2020 and is characterised by inter- and multidisciplinary methods focused on the future.

The work spans across faculties and takes place in collaboration with relevant stakeholders in society. Using this approach to tackle complex scientific issues is something that makes the future platforms unique.

The platforms are intended to be a living, interactive interface between academy and society, and aims to:

  • identify needs for knowledge, through projects based on synthesis and analysis, and generate scientifically based decision support for issues relevant to society;
  • identify and develop, through collaboration with relevant actors in society, new questions for research to support solutions to future challenges;
  • develop interdisciplinary working methods by coordinating cooperation across disciplinary boundaries.
SLU Future Animals, Nature and Health focuses on health and quality of life of animals, as well as the interface between people, animals and nature. It also covers the importance of animals and nature for the health and well-being of humans. Photo: Mårten Svensson
SLU Future Food focuses on Swedish food production and food in a wide sense, both animal and vegetable products. Several aspects are covered, from soil use and primary production to processing, consumption and residual products. Photo: Jenny Svennås-Gillner, SLU
SLU Future Forests focuses on sustainable forestry in a wide sense, covering the importance of forests and forestry for the developement of a biobased economy, adaption to climate change, the ecosystem services provided by forests and decision-making processes where the views of different groups on forestry are taken into account. Photo: Jenny Svennås-Gillner, SLU
SLU Urban Futures focuses on urban inhabitants and their need for green environments with a broad sustainability perspective, including urban supply systems and the interaction with the surrounding countryside. Foto: Nina Vogel, SLU

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