Can simulation models influence behavioural change towards climate change solutions in the fashion industry

Overview

Climate change is a global threat to humanity today. Many models have been developed to predict global warming and Greenhouse gas emissions, with one example being the EN-ROADS climate simulator. However these models are

generic and do not focus on the impact of a specific industry or individuals organisations’ actions. Faculty at Nottingham Business School have carried out a number of studies that demonstrate how simulation models can be developed and used to support learning and insight generation. The purpose of this project is to develop empirical evidence to confirm whether useful learning can be obtained from using predictive climate change models. Models are envisioned to focus on the supply chains of fashion products.

The specific objectives are:

· To develop an understanding of existing climate change models

· To develop suitable simulation models to predict the impact of fashion supply chains on climate change.

· To design an experimental study to determine user learning and behavioural change from using climate change models by organisations

This project will make a significant contribution to the fields of simulation modelling in climate change and behavioural operational research.

The PhD candidate will aim to develop an understanding of existing climate change models and choose or develop a customised model for the purposes of the study. Furthermore, it will involve the development of climate change models of fashion supply chains and the design of computer model laboratory experiments (with students) that will aim to determine what and how participants learn from these models. The models will utilise publicly available data and information.

This PhD project will aim to determine whether and how climate change simulation models can be used to influence individuals’ knowledge, attitudes and perceptions of sustainable environmental practices and promote climate action in fashion supply chains. The knowledge gained will provide a valuable contribution to research on climate change modelling and especially on behavioural research methodologies on how simulation models can be used to support learning.