DSJ Thematic Collection on

Design Science for Absolute Sustainability

Towards systemic ecological and societal impact

Design for absolute sustainability is an emerging paradigm that seeks to enhance human well-being without exceeding the Earth’s carrying capacity. In line with DSJ’s interdisciplinary perspective, this collection welcomes design research that bridges engineering, environmental science, social science, economics, and the humanities.

We are particularly interested in work that integrates ecological limits, such as planetary boundaries, with dynamic systems perspectives, such as recursive design dynamics. Submissions should present artefacts, methods, and validated frameworks that move beyond incremental improvements to enable transformative change in socio-ecological systems.

While the collection aims to include research papers, we will also consider submissions of position papers, review papers, and design impact briefs.

Guest Editors

• Daniela C. A. Pigosso
• Tim C. McAloone
• Eldbjørg Blikra Vea

Theme Topics

• Design methods and frameworks for operationalising safe and just operating spaces, integrating planetary boundaries with social thresholds to guide sustainable innovation.
• Modelling and assessing systemic impacts of design interventions, addressing ecological limits and social well-being to support holistic decision-making.
• Investigating recursive dynamics between artefacts, user practices, institutions, and socio-ecological outcomes, uncovering feedback loops that influence sustainability transitions.
• Advancing interdisciplinary and transdisciplinary approaches to sustainability design, combining technical, social, economic, and ethical perspectives for transformative solutions.

For additional topics and other questions regarding this collection, please contact the Guest Editors.

For all questions on the Design Science Journal, please contact Panos Y. Papalambros, Editor in Chief (dsj-editor@designsociety.org).