The Institute of Environmental Science and Research (ESR) has changed its name to the New Zealand Institute for Public Health and Forensic Science (PHF Science) as of 1 July 2025. The new website address is www.phfscience.nz. Visitors will automatically be redirected to the new address. Please check and update any links and bookmarks after this change.

Social Systems Lab Learning Report 2020-2023

Please note: As of 1 July 2025, the New Zealand Institute for Public Health and Forensic Science (PHF Science) is the new name for the Institute of Environmental Science and Research (ESR). Research and reports published prior to this date may reference the organisation’s former name.

Summary

The Social Systems Lab at ESR integrates systems thinking and social science to collaboratively address complex challenges. This initiative explores applied social systems methods to foster innovation, and guides partners in practical systems thinking. Initially funded through the ESR Strategic Science Investment Fund (SSIF) from the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment (MBIE), the Social Systems Lab remains the focal point for the Social Systems team's work, advocating for the widespread use of systems approaches within and beyond ESR.

Download