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Sustainability Research

The initiative with LiUST stems from the university’s ambition to take a leading role in the transition towards a more sustainable society. LiU is already a strong player in this field, but LiUST aims to pool resources and create even greater impact – locally, nationally and internationally. It is also fully in line with LiU’s strategic plan and the profile area Sustainable Societal Transformations.

LiU Sustainability Transformations will receive funding amounting to a total of SEK 15 million for the period 2025–2028. It is directly subordinate to LiU’s Vice-Chancellor and is led by a steering group with both internal and external members as well as student representatives. A dedicated student team will also contribute to its operation and ensure a student perspective.

Rektor Jan-Ingvar Jönsson, Linköpings universitet. Photographer: Charlotte Perhammar

- With this initiative, we strengthen LiU’s role as a pioneer in sustainability issues and in contributing to transformative change in line with Agenda 2030. We are gearing up our research and collaboration to meet one of the great challenges of today – and to give the next generation the tools to shape the future, says Vice-Chancellor Jan-Ingvar Jönsson.

Research projects in the field of sustainability transformations

Here we have gathered projects at LiU that in some way engage in research related to sustainability transformations.

If you cannot find your project in the summary below, please contact us at our shared email address: liust@liu.se.

Graphic pattern of hexagons

Next-2Digits – Next-gen sensors with 2D materials

Next-2Digits develops integration technologies for 2D materials in photonic and optoelectronic circuits. The project enhances performance and cost-efficiency in optical sensors while boosting European innovation through scalable manufacturing.

Incineration of waste

Is Swedish waste incineration a source of PFAS to the environment?

Is waste incineration a source of PFAS in the environment? This project examines how effectively PFAS breaks down during municipal incineration and whether new compounds form.

Hand som visar ett grafiskt element med återvinning, elbil, solceller, vindkraft och fabrik

Synthesis study on the transition to a circular economy

The project analyses why circular economy targets are not being met and how policy instruments, actors and value systems need to change. Through a broad synthesis, it generates knowledge that can support an effective transition.

Image with the text CO2.

Carbon dioxide capture in the transition toward a carbon-neutral university

Researchers at LiU are working to develop a new method for capturing carbon dioxide in buildings. By integrating Direct Air Capture into ventilation systems, we can reduce climate emissions and generate profit by selling the captured CO₂.

Conveyor belt with recycling

The new role of recycling actors in a circular economy

The project explores how recycling actors can develop their roles and strategies to gradually and robustly contribute to a more resource-efficient society in the transition to a circular economy.

Dirt pile and backhoe

Managing PFAS-Contaminated Soil Sustainably - Co-Creating a Comprehensive Decision Support Tool

The project is developing a cost-effective tool for measuring PFAS concentrations in soil. The aim is to promote sustainable land use through improved decision support, standardised methods, and guidance for professionals working in planning.

Research at LiU