Newcastle University

Systems modelling

Earth Systems Engineering lies on the interface between technological, human and natural systems. In the past, interactions between these systems have been treated in rather simplified terms. Yet sustainable systems management will not be achieved in practice unless the human dimension of system behaviour is more completely and realistically represented in the analysis of coupled technological, human and natural systems. Our research programme therefore extends through a range of methods for quantified socio-economic analysis, based on land use simulation, process modelling, agent-based models and economic modelling.

Building upon many years of research in physical simulation of natural and engineered systems, for example hydrological systems and geotechnical modelling, within CESER we are focussing upon coupled modelling across a range of scales, incorporating multiple technological, human and natural processes, to support system management decisions. An example of this type of simulation and analysis is provided by our research, first funded by the Tyndall Centre, on integrated assessment of climate change in cities, which we coordinate, in which regional economic modelling, land use simulation, climate downscaling and physically based modelling of climate impacts are being combined to inform the development of adaptation strategies in urban areas.

Key publications