Research and sustainability
Science and innovation for a sustainable world
Avignon Université's research laboratories are on the front line in meeting the world's environmental challenges. By applying their expertise to issues relating to biodiversity, agriculture, natural resources and socio-ecological transitions, they are playing an active part in building a sustainable future.
Their research also involves close collaboration with the socio-economic world, particularly through partnership chairsthree of which are directly linked to sustainability.
Chairs in sustainability
As a specialist in the eco-extraction of plants, it develops environmentally-friendly processes for adding value to natural resources.
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It studies the dynamics of groundwater resources and their interactions with associated ecosystems, to ensure sustainable management of this precious resource.
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It analyses the links between the land and property markets and sustainable regional development models.
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Exploring the mysteries of ecosystems
The Mediterranean Biodiversity Institute and ecology marine and continental (IMBE) delves into the diversity of ecosystems, from the depths of the sea to mountain peaks. It provides fundamental and applied knowledge of the functions and historical and evolutionary dynamics of biodiversity in all types of Mediterranean ecosystems.
It develops approaches for diagnosing the state of health of ecosystems, and produces original results and innovations for ecological restoration and the sustainable management of natural and cultural heritage. For example, it works on the biodiversity of agro-ecosystems and its ecosystem services - such as pest control or pollination, on the ecotoxicology of pesticides, on the restoration of degraded ecosystems (Mediterranean and mountain grasslands, photovoltaic power stations) and on the chemistry of cultural heritage (archaeology).
Cultivating food excellence
L'QualiSud joint research unit is committed to an integrated approach to quality food, from farm to table. By preserving the freshness of fruit and vegetables and developing innovative, environmentally-friendly preservation techniques, they guarantee healthy food for future generations.
Reinventing plant processing
The laboratory Safety and Quality of Plant Products (SQPOV) rethinks plant transformation processes with a view to sustainability.
Through the Qualiveg3In this way, it creates processing routes that optimise the use of plant biomass while minimising the environmental footprint, offering solutions for a more sustainable and environmentally-friendly food supply.
Shining a light on the future of agriculture
The research team Plant Science, Interactions and Innovation (PSII) is revolutionising agriculture through its studies into the stimulating effect of UV-C light and its flashes on plants' natural defence mechanisms and stress tolerance. These studies open up an original and highly promising avenue for more sustainable and resilient agriculture in the face of the challenges of pesticide reduction and climate change.
Anticipating tomorrow's challenges
The laboratories EMMAH and SPACE are looking to the future. They anticipate the impact of contemporary socio-environmental transformations, such as climate change, the ageing of the population and the development of digital technology, on natural resources, particularly water, on social life and on the construction of territories. In this way, they are working towards more enlightened management of socio-environmental transitions for more sustainable territories.
With this in mind, the Rustrel Low Noise Underground Laboratory (LSBB) is a formidable tool for studying groundwater resources and, more generally, global change.
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Understanding the challenges facing our heritage
The Norbert Elias Centre (CNE)the social science laboratory, analyses current issues in politics, culture and heritage, particularly ecological and natural heritage. It highlights the links that people have forged with their olive-growing heritage, which they have inherited and will pass on. By involving stakeholders in research, seeking to preserve the land, educating people about quality food and promoting this heritage to tourists from near and far, it is trying to pave the way for a more resilient society that respects its environment.
Documenting past and present toxic exposures
The Scientific Interest Group on Occupational and Environmental Cancers (GISCOPE 84)in partnership with the Centre Hospitalier d'Avignon, is identifying and analysing the carcinogenic exposure to which patients are exposed at work. The aim is to make cancers of occupational and environmental origin visible, so that they can be prevented.
The Junior Professorship in Toxicity and Citizenship (ToxCit') is contributing to this programme by studying the history of toxic legacies in the lower Rhône valley.
Science outreach: sharing research with everyone
The laboratories of Avignon University disseminate their discoveries through events open to all (Midisciences, Fête de la science, Cordées de la réussite...).
These actions are coordinated by the Research and Innovation Support Department (DARI)which supports the dissemination of scientific culture.
Mis à jour le 13 March 2025