Economics of sustainability transitions

The economics of sustainability transitions team at SEI HQ is a specialized group of researchers focusing on climate neutrality transitions across communities, cities and countries. Our research tackles the financial and economic complexities faced by local and national governments. A particular emphasis is on quantitative modelling and close stakeholder engagement. We combine quantitative methods with qualitative depth to obtain a rich understanding of interactions between public policy, financial instruments and market governance systems.

This photo by Unknown Author is licensed under CC BY-SA.

As the world shifts towards carbon neutrality and, in parallel, continues to undertake climate adaptation measures, it is essential to understand the economic and financial dimensions of this transition. Economic expertise is vital for assessing the costs and benefits of decarbonization policies and adaptation, while financial models are crucial for mobilizing the investments needed to drive the transition on a scale. By researching economic and financial factors, we can reveal incentive structures and resource allocation challenges, and accelerate the path to sustainable, long-term solutions.

We use advanced economic models to assess the financial implications of carbon reduction and climate adaptation strategies, while fostering deep connections with policymakers, business leaders, and civil society to ensure practical, impactful solutions. Our work spans the European Union, as well as countries in the EU’s eastern neighborhood, and targets government, industry and financial markets.

Our team pools expertise in economics, finance, mathematics, and political science. By combining research with collaborative partnerships, we provide insights that help guide the transition to carbon-neutral economies at local, national and international levels.

A panoramic aerial view of Stockholm, showcasing the sprawling city with its distinctive architecture, waterways and bridges.

Viable Cities Finance Dashboard

Tool / Explore nearly 30 climate actions and 100+ assumptions on the VCF Dashboard to simulate impactful emission scenarios in Swedish cities up to 2030.

About Cities, Climate services, Finance, Innovation and Planning and modelling

Panel discussion at a conference, with four speakers seated on stage and a keynote presentation displayed on a screen behind them.

Green Agenda for Armenia, Moldova and Ukraine

Project / Green Agenda supports Armenia, Moldova and Ukraine in their efforts to achieve climate neutrality through green transition.

2022 - 2027 / About Climate policy, Planning and modelling, Public policy and Sustainable lifestyles

Gay couple riding bicycles in Malmö city

Net Zero Pilot Malmö

Project / SEI is working together with Malmö on the transition to climate neutral lifestyles with reduced household consumption and how to finance the overall transition.

2023 - 2025 / About Behaviour and choice, Public policy and Sustainable lifestyles

Liljeholmskajen under construction, Stockholm, Sweden, February 2019

Material Assets Valuation: Estimating Risks and Impacts of Climate Change (MAVERIC)

Project / This project will provide financial actors with a climate risk valuation method for material assets (buildings, land, and land installations).

2022 - 2025 / About Adaptation, Finance, Land use and Mitigation

Tiberio Bridge in Rimini, Italy, one of the municipalities involved in the project.

AT LAST

Project / AT LAST is an EU-funded project that supports European cities in realizing their climate ambitions.

2023 - 2024 / About Cities and Climate policy

Back of woman walking down tree-lined path, Kungsgatan, Malmö, Sweden

Financing urban transitions

Program / This project aims to accelerate investment in viable cities by assessing needs, frameworks and conditions under which financiers and cities can collaborate.

2019 - 2030 / About Cities and Finance