My previous research programs revealed evolving climate conditions, which are already greatly modifying the conditions for life on our planet. Stabilizing the Earth's climate requires intense carbon emissions cuts of 50-85% by 2050 (IPCC, 2007a).
The short timeframe for action together with an increasing unreliability of energy supplies and ever increasing demand for energy makes a strong case for integrating Conservation and Demand Management with sustainable technologies to design viable climate change adaptation and mitigation strategies (IPCC, 2007a).
The multidisciplinary nature of the topic and the vital role of the interaction between humans and technology have inspired us to integrate principles of human factors engineering to CDM to improve overall system performance and the efficiency of energy use.
We are
establishing an interdisciplinary research project to acquire a deeper understanding of the interaction between design, behaviour and technology.
designing and testing feedback interfaces, taking advantage of theories in behavioural economics to overcome obstacles to sustainable behaviour.
studying incorporation of nature imagery into feedback strategies as a powerful motivator to trigger behavioural change at a deeper level.
manipulating 'choice scenarios' in such a way as to 'nudge' people toward better environmental decisions and to explore the ethical implications.
More on my research
Related links
Sustainability Office, University of Toronto
The Story of Stuff
How much is left? The limits of Earth's resources!
Indicators of Sustainable Development
UN Division for Sustainable Development
My Sustainable Canada
Sustainability Institute
