Future Social PracticesFuture Social Practices

The “Sustainability as a collective task” project is jointly funded by the municipalities of Barendrecht, Albrandswaard and Ridderkerk, together with Erasmus University. The research forms part of the Behavioural Change strategic pillar of the Erasmus School of Social and Behavioural Sciences (ESSB). It draws on three academic disciplines—psychology, sociology and public administration—and is carried out by a research group that began as the Erasmus Governance Design Studio and now operates as the Erasmus Social Design Hub (ESDH). Using (co-)design to address social challenges, this group works with various stakeholders (municipalities, local organizations and residents) to explore how municipal sustainability policy can take shape. The approach is therefore transdisciplinary and co-creative. Following the demerger of the BAR municipalities on 1 January 2024, the project’s context has changed, but its goal remains the same: to investigate, develop and test ways for municipalities to create a stronger foundation for a pleasant, sustainable and future-proof life for their residents. The project exemplifies Erasmus University’s commitment to societal impact.