About ICIS

ICIS, at the Faculty of Humanities and Sciences, Maastricht University, was founded in 1998. ICIS addresses complex issues facing the planet and its inhabitants. Its aims are to conduct research and provide education in the fields of integrated assessment and sustainable development.

The ICIS organization is multidisciplinary; it has a mix of national and international, globalised, youthful people. ICIS researchers in the natural and social sciences work together in pursuit of solutions to real world problems. Such integrative studies involve analysis of the causes, effects and the mutual interlinkages between economic, environmental, institutional and socio-cultural processes associated with a specific environment or complex issue (e.g. tourism, health, water, mobility). These interdisciplinary analyses complemented with participatory processes involving stakeholders usually form the basis for the development of visions and long-term strategies.

Common language is English and/or Dutch. Our common values are trust, accurate, transparent, flexible and open for new innovations on sustainable development.

ICIS has become a scientific ‘centre of excellence’ related to the integrated assessment of sustainable development. At ICIS, researchers of various nationalities conduct theoretical, empirical and policy-relevant research. This scientific research programme forms an excellent basis for the programmes and courses that ICIS offers on the bachelor, master, and PhD level.

Furthermore, ICIS works closely with the UM Green Office, a body of Maastricht University that is managed by a team of employees and students, which, supervised by senior staff, addresses green interests of UM employees, UM students and visitors with the goal of higher sustainability standards within the University and its community.

ICIS vision and mission

We have a vision of a world where individuals can make the most of their potential, where poverty no longer exists, and where people respect each other and nature. This vision is a goal we strive for day after day in our work as teachers, scientists and managers.

Our ‘sustainbility science’ works on shaping the rigorous scientific backbone of this vision. It needs the creation of a network of scholars, researchers and experts from research centres and universities around the world and their connection in a close partnership with leading representatives from civil society, the business community and policymaking institutions.

The potential to achieve a more sustainable world exists – it’s up to us to make the most of it. Advancements in science and technology, knowledge, awareness and commitment can make a huge difference in achieving local and global sustainability.

ICIS stimulates integration in sustainable thinking and acting on different social levels by research, education and policy. Motivated by the belief that science and education are able to greatly contribute to the sustainability of life on Earth, ICIS continues to respond to the particular challenges of sustainable development.

Commitment for internal Sustainability

ICIS is strongly committed to its own sustainable development (see ICIS Commitments).