Societal transformations
Wageningen University & Research supports transformative change across food systems. We help governments, businesses and civil society actors identify entry points to shift consumer behaviour, production practices and institutional systems, ensuring transformations that are sustainable, inclusive and scalable.
Transforming food systems requires more than isolated solutions. Wageningen University & Research helps actors understand the full scope of system dynamics across people, places and practices. From local value chains to global governance, we identify what works, where and why.
Our strategies are grounded in science and tailored to real-world implementation. We integrate behavioural insights, political economy factors and stakeholder dynamics to ensure that interventions are both technically sound and socially feasible.
We draw on internationally recognised research and frameworks such as the IPCC and SDGs, adapting them to local realities. Our tools and methods support change agents in scaling innovations, facilitating collaboration and driving systemic transformation.
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Expertises
Strategies for responsible and just transformations
Systemic change requires more than technical solutions. At Wageningen University & Research, our social and economic scientists work with you to uncover the deeper structures behind societal challenges and co-create strategies that support meaningful transformation.
Strategies for responsible and just transformations
Systemic change requires more than technical solutions. At Wageningen University & Research, our social and economic scientists work with you to uncover the deeper structures behind societal challenges and co-create strategies that support meaningful transformation.
Scaling sustainable food system initiatives
Many promising agrofood innovations do not make it at a larger scale of implementation, due to barriers in collaboration, policy, in- or exclusion of certain stakeholders, or economic constraints. What is needed to scale up succesfully? Wageningen University & Research can offer you the knowledge and case studies to understand barriers and help you move forward.
Facilitating multi-stakeholder collaboration
An approach designed to support inclusive and sustainable transformations in food systems, agriculture, and natural resource management. Leveraging extensive global experience, WSER assists partners in engaging relevant stakeholders and fostering consensus on joint actions through evidence-based analysis and structured dialogue. This approach creates safe spaces for innovation and collective problem-solving, addressing complex challenges across local to global contexts.
Supporting change agents in food system transformation
Wageningen University & Research empowers mid-career professionals and organisations to lead transformative change in food systems. Through tailor-made leadership journeys, peer networks and coaching, we strengthen the capacity to navigate complexity, build collaboration and drive sustainable, inclusive transitions.
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Why partner with WUR
What we offer
- In-depth expertise on food system transformation
- Frameworks tailored to consumers, producers and institutions
- Focus on synergies, trade-offs, and safe and just outcomes
- Based on leading systems thinking and behavioural science
- Trusted by governments, NGOs, and international networks
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Do you have a question regarding societal transformations or working together with us? Ask our Business Development coordinator:
Explore other focus areas
Policy, governance and decision-making support
We support policymakers with science-based insights for effective, inclusive and future-proof agri-food and environmental policies. Using advanced data analytics, sector expertise and scenario modelling, we help assess trade-offs, forecast impacts, and guide strategic decisions in complex food and climate systems.
Policy, governance and decision-making support
We support policymakers with science-based insights for effective, inclusive and future-proof agri-food and environmental policies. Using advanced data analytics, sector expertise and scenario modelling, we help assess trade-offs, forecast impacts, and guide strategic decisions in complex food and climate systems.
Resilient production systems
We equip farmers, fishers and agri-food actors with science-based insights and practical tools to achieve sustainable livelihoods, efficient production and informed decision-making. Our expertise helps build a resilient, fair and future-proof food system.
Transparent value chains
Transparency in value chains is essential for building fair and sustainable food systems. Wageningen University & Research supports businesses and policymakers by measuring and reducing environmental, social and economic impacts, enabling evidence-based decisions that contribute to a resilient and future-proof food system.
Healthy and sustainable consumption
Wageningen University & Research helps governments, businesses and NGOs design and evaluate effective strategies for healthier and more sustainable food choices. Using global consumer data and behavioural science, we support impactful interventions that contribute to a food system that benefits both people and the planet.
Nature-positive and climate-proof economies
Wageningen University & Research supports the transition to nature-positive and climate-resilient economies. We help governments, businesses and civil society actors strengthen biodiversity, reduce climate risks, and build circular, resilient systems that benefit people, planet and prosperity.
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