The concept of social-ecological systems describes how social systems and ecological systems are inherently interlinked.

This has led to an increasing focus within science, policy and practice on humanity’s dependence on nature, our immense influence on it and the ethical responsibilities that come with it.

In a study from Current Opinion in Environmental Sciences, Stockholm Resilience Centre researchers together with colleagues from the Programme on Ecosystem Change and Society (PECS) discuss the advances that have been made and identify priorities for moving ahead.

Study presents four ways in which the social-ecological systems approach has begun to shift research and practice. Study also identifies four interlinked priorities for researchers and decision makers. There is still a risk that growing challenges of the Anthropocene will outpace scientific progress.