WORK STREAMS

Year after year, Earth Overshoot Day tends to occur earlier in the calendar. Currently, it oscillates between late July and early August. This indicator of human impact on natural resources, however, conceals vast disparities in resource access and consumption patterns—ranging from the excessive to the frugal. With a high proportion of island states and fragile ecosystems, the Indian Ocean region often experience a heightened tension between two opposing trends: the depletion of resources and a culture of frugality. The 'Creative Resources and Ambiance' stream aims to address these challenges through a 'think global, act local' approach. It supports creative and experimental initiatives that bridge the management of resources & production processes with the fields of perception, environmental relationships, & sensibility (including atmosphere, comfort, well-being, and artistic emotion). Coordinators : Dr. Pascal Joanne & Dr. Farrah Jahangeer

Recent advancements in digital tools have empowered the near real-time computation of simulations, ranging from the dynamics of climatic phenomena to intricate soundscapes. Leveraging generative methodologies and artificial intelligence, this technological progress facilitates the evaluation of architectural and urban solutions. It provides insights into their ecological impact, cost considerations, the feasibility of utilizing locally sourced materials, and offers a platform for unrestricted exploration of aesthetic dimensions. Furthermore, the potency of contemporary tools extends to the visual representation, allowing for a heightened awareness of the critical challenges posed by substantial ecological shifts. This encompasses issues such as rising sea levels, the broader spectrum of climate changes, increasing land pressures, and the profound implications associated with forging an inclusive, tranquil, and collaborative urban environment. Within this research stream, a proactive approach is taken to propose innovative solutions, tools, and methodologies. The objective is to support a diverse array of urban stakeholders in augmenting their professional arsenals. These enhanced tools prove invaluable for the in-depth analysis, creative design processes, and effective communication of projects in the dynamic context of urban development. Advisor : Prof. Laurent Lescop

In recent decades, the world has undergone major upheavals. At the forefront, the acceleration of globalization and climate change are disrupting key economic, social, and environmental balances. The Indian Ocean region is particularly affected by these transformations, as the major global flows concentrated there (maritime trade, industrial subcontracting, tourism, etc.) are now challenged by rising sea levels, whose effects are increasingly tangible. Comprised largely of small island states with highly contrasted levels of development and environmental contexts, this region faces growing vulnerability. This situation compels us to rethink our models through the lens of transition in all its facets (economic, social, ecological, etc.). The 'Geography of Transitions' research stream aims to encourage and federate work on this transition—exploring the experimentation of new ways of living, the emergence of new links between people and their territories, the invention of solutions for adapting to environmental changes, the design of new models of territorial governance, and more. Coordinator : Prof. Nathalie Bernardie-Tahir

The climate crisis forces a radical rethink of how we feed ourselves. It is no longer just about maintaining quality despite degraded soils and volatile weather; it is about localizing production to curb environmental impact. In small island developing states, this transition is a matter of urgency: land is a finite, precious resource, climate disruptions are felt more acutely, and the reliance on imports remains a heavy burden. However, these islands are far from mere victims. With their history of experimental cultivation and agricultural ingenuity, they are uniquely positioned as laboratories for resilience. By reimagining land use, optimizing agricultural infrastructure (architecture), and closing the loop on water cycles, these territories can transform their constraints into a blueprint for autonomy. Coordinator : Assoc. Prof. Yann Rocher

The challenges ahead are immense in the face of climate change, social inequalities, and current geopolitical tensions. This research group explores the challenges facing Mauritian and Indian Ocean territories regarding the human resources and skills (competencies) required for transitions and the achievement of the UN 2030 Agenda’s Sustainable Development Goals. This work stream takes various forms. On a theoretical level, it clarifies new concepts and key instruments for territories, such as 'territorial interoperability.' On a more applied level, it seeks to concretely identify the skills necessary to deploy sustainability policies, while designing and testing new initial and vocational training programs to meet these needs Coodinator : Dr. Claudia Enrech