The Department of Urban and Rural Development has a new professor! Eva Lövbrand, who most recently worked at Linköping University, specialises in environmental policy and governance – a new field of research at SLU. Read more about what Eva is working on right now, what she’s looking forward to this autumn, and things she enjoys talking about over a cup of coffee.
Your new role – what does it involve?
My role is to build up activities around SLU’s new subject area, environmental policy and governance. This is a field I have both studied and contributed to over the years. I’m looking forward to shaping its profile together with my colleagues at SOL.
What are you currently working on?
I’m working intensively on a number of research projects, including the EU’s emerging market for forest carbon removals, Sweden’s green industrial policy, and the climate movement’s democratic experiments.
Anything in particular you’re looking forward to this autumn?
We’re about to launch a new seminar series at SOL called Green Politics in Transition. I’m really looking forward to getting to know my new colleagues through joint text seminars. I’m also planning for a trip to Australia this autumn (can I out this as a climate scholar?). During the trip, we’ll visit an art collective in Natimuk (Victoria) and learn more about practices of community repair in climate affected regions.
What are your impressions of SOL and SLU so far?
SOL seems like a creative department with many good critical social scientists who I’m looking forward to getting to know better. So far, SLU has made a very good impression – beautiful green surroundings, good food, a dog day care centre (!) and in-house honey.
What do you like to talk about over a fika?
Gardening! I live in a small forest patch in one of Stockholm’s southern suburbs. I am trying to get my forest garden to flourish in close collaboration (?) with the local deer, foxes, bats and frogs.
Your most important work ritual?
A morning walk before I lock myself in front of the computer is a must.
Favourite way to procrastinate?
A chat with colleagues over a cup of coffee is always welcome.
Where can people find you in the office?
I’m not entirely sure myself yet. On the fourth floor, across from my colleagues in Environmental Communication.
Read more about Eva Lövbrand's research here.