I4C insights from the Social Simulation Conference 2025

From August 25 to 29, I4C researchers joined scientists from around the world at the Social Simulation Conference 2025, held at the Delft University of Technology in the Netherlands. Organised by the European Social Simulation Association (ESSA), the event highlighted the latest advances in using computational tools to understand complex social systems.

Our team presented two insightful studies conducted by NORCE, showcasing how knowledge about climate change adaptation spreads and evolves:

1. From qualitative data to algorithms: Climate change adaptation in Municipalities – Vanja Falck, Ivan Puga-Gonzalez, Pierre Van Wolleghem, Fount LeRon Shults, Marta Bruno Soares
2. Simulating climate knowledge exchange across European cities: A SNA-ABM approach – Pierre Van Wolleghem, Ivan Puga-Gonzalez, Marta Bruno Soares

These presentations highlight how I4C uses cutting-edge methods to better understand climate knowledge networks, supporting smarter and more adaptive responses to climate change across Europe.

1. From qualitative data to algorithms: Climate change adaptation in Municipalities

This presentation demonstrates how qualitative research can inform the development of algorithmic tools for local climate adaptation. Drawing on in-depth interviews with municipal actors across Europe and Turkey, the study translates context-specific insights into practical algorithms that guide municipalities in implementing climate actions effectively. These tools evaluate the usability of adaptation strategies, highlighting both barriers and enablers, such as ICLEI support and local expertise. The work demonstrates the effectiveness of integrating social science with computational approaches in enhancing municipal climate resilience.

2. Simulating climate knowledge exchange across European cities a SNA – ABM approach

This study explores how knowledge flows among European cities can be modeled to enhance urban climate adaptation. By integrating Social Network Analysis (SNA) with Agent-Based Modeling (ABM), the research simulates the circulation of climate and policy knowledge within Transnational Municipal Networks (TMNs). The presentation examines how network structures, city characteristics, and knowledge-sharing behaviors influence the dissemination and adoption of adaptation practices, providing insights into strategies for more effective climate governance.

Conclusion

By bringing together qualitative insights, computational modeling, and network analysis, the I4C team’s contributions at SSC 2025 underline the value of interdisciplinary approaches in tackling climate challenges. These studies not only advance our understanding of how climate knowledge is created and shared but also provide practical tools for fostering resilience and cooperation among European municipalities.