ECORISK is concerned with the causes and consequences of ecological regime shifts in socio-ecological systems. Regime shifts are sudden transitions in ecosystems that are closely linked to human activities and can trigger cascading effects worldwide. ECORISK uses an interdisciplinary team and a holistic approach to investigate these shifts, their risks and how they are perceived by different actors. It focuses on ecosystem dynamics, human activities and governance, with intensive agriculture as a leading example. The case studies span regions in Europe, the US Midwest and South America, examining different contexts. By integrating research and doctoral education, ECORISK aims to generate new knowledge and empower a new generation of scientists to effectively tackle complex environmental and societal challenges.