I had the honor to give a presentation about the integration of sustainablility and research at the 2024 PhD Conference at Karolinska Institutet. The intersection of research and sustainability is crucial for shaping a better future. By collaborating across disciplines and embracing a broader approach, researchers can drive positive change and make meaningful and measurable contributions to a more sustainable world. With a clear Climate Strategy, a roadmap towards sustainable practices and innovative researchers who think outside of the box, Karolinska Institutet is able to make a considerable impact for society.

Since some years back, I have connected my work within mental health, behavior change interventions and data-driven decision processes with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) framework and also developed some personal strategies to make a measureable and meaningful impact. I presented some of my lessons learned at the conference and had a thought-provoking discussion with the attending PhD students.

Some topics that we discussed:

• Does climate worry fuel sustainable behaviors, and in this case, can we use this worry constructively in our research activities?
• The majority of the population in most countries feels alarmed or concerned about the climate. Those feelings leads to sustainable behaviors sometimes, but there are many people who want to do something, but do not know how or what.
• To facilitate impactful sustainable actions, concrete tools are needed. Behavioral psychology provides a set of evidence-based tools that can be used within a sustainability / climate action context.

I have a feeling that the new generation of researchers is very passionate about these issues and am looking forward to continue the conversation.

Thank you Katalin Vincze and Doctoral Students’ Association (DSA) at KI- A section of Medicinska Föreningen for the invitation and a beautifully hosted event!