PEER members are dedicated exclusively to environmental research focusing on the interaction between man and the environment and sustainable development. PEER addresses complex environmental challenges on different spatial and temporal scales, integrating natural sciences, social sciences and engineering, and linking basic and applied research.

The research activities are based on PEER members' multi-annual strategic research programmes, and financed through public sector budget allocation and by competitive funding.

PEER research contributes to the UN Sustainable Development Goals. The image shows an indication of the combined PEER centers impact.