Robust Decision Making for Sustainability

Robust decision making for sustainability under global change: Classifying, sequencing, and evaluating alternative methodological choices

Enayat A. Moallemi, Fateme Zare, Patrick M. Reed, Sondoss Elsawah, Michael J. Ryan, Brett A. Bryan

Decision-making in the context of complex human—natural systems requires a transition towards robust model-based inferences which are effective despite uncertainties of human and climate driven changes. Supporting robust decision-making requires a sequence of interactive methodological choices. We review a broad array of methodological constructs that should be considered when implementing robust decision making under global change. We discuss how implementation choices of decision support, which we call decision support paths, emerge from the cumulative effects of individual methodological choices under the influence of human factors that shape how problems are perceived and framed.