Putting people and science at the centre of the sustainability transition
Our Vision
A world where living well no longer costs the Earth. We envision societies that have turned the corner on the climate and biodiversity crises – not by sacrifice, but by redesigning how we live, work, and care for one another. Fairness and equity guides consumption, care is valued as the heart of our economies, and every person can thrive within the planet’s means.
Our mission
Hot or Cool Institute is a public interest think tank working at the intersection of society and sustainability.
Our mission is to challenge the status quo, help people reimagine what is possible and enable systemic change towards resilient societies that thrive within ecological limits.
We translate science and research into action by providing key organisations and decision makers with tools, narratives and policy options.
We are committed to public participation and fairness as we drive systemic change to enable low-carbon nature-positive lifestyles and wellbeing for all.
What we do
As a public interest think-tank, we advance alternative economic and societal thinking that prioritises wellbeing, equity, and ecological stability – connecting scientific insights with policy and practice. We influence policy and decision-making to target the systemic drivers that shape social and environmental outcomes, ensuring that transformative interventions take root and grow.
Our Guiding Principles
Environmental sustainability and social justice together
We anchor our work in science and the ecological boundaries that safeguard the planet’s regenerative capacity. At the same time, we seek solutions that advance environmental sustainability while enhancing people’s wellbeing and quality of life. Recognising that overconsumption by some reduces the resources available for others to meet their needs, we treat overconsumption and underconsumption as interconnected challenges and place social justice at the centre of our theory of change. Ultimately, a just ecological transition requires addressing these imbalances in ways that build trust, inclusion, and democratic legitimacy.
Systemic Solutions
We focus on addressing root causes rather than isolated symptoms. Rather than targeting individual behaviour change, we work to reshape the structural conditions that determine collective outcomes – from redesigning economic, political, and physical structures to shifting narratives, aspirations and cultural norms. So that sustainable and equitable outcomes become the default rather than the exception.
Who funds us
As an independent, non-profit organisation, Hot or Cool is committed to ensuring all our research and resources are free and openly accessible to the public. The organisation receives funding through a range of sources, including philanthropic grants, private contributions, research grants and donations from the general public, which helps us stay independent and neutral.
If you share our vision, you can support us here.
