What Happened at the Summit
Around 250 participants from Germany and abroad took part over three days. Three plenary panel discussions brought the participants together in the large hall of the Umweltforum and offered the opportunity for an intensive exchange. The topics included the question of how sustainability science can contribute to the transformation towards sustainability, as well as national and international trends in science funding. Current international political developments were a focal point, given their significant impact on sustainable development and on sustainability science. The program also offered more than 30 parallel sessions that emerged from the open call for session proposals. Furthermore, interactive session formats provided space for networking and exchange beyond the topic-related content.
Statement on Sustainability Science Published
In the time leading up to the Summit, the German Committee Future Earth (DKN) also compiled a statement entitled “Sustainability research more urgent than ever!” and presented the paper at the conference. Against the backdrop of the German federal government elections and amidst current national and international political developments, the paper stresses five main points:
- Scientifically sound analysis and fact-based action are needed.
- Excellent science needs secured funding.
- Impactful sustainability science needs support and coordination.
- Interdisciplinary and transdisciplinary research and problem-solving are essential.
- Free democracies need to base their decisions on facts and science – not on fake news and conspiracy theories
After the Summit, the statement was sent to political representatives involved in the negotiations following the German federal elections, along with 700 signatures. Download the statement on sustainability science (in German).
Panel Discussions at the Sustainability Science Summit
The first panel discussion “Advancing Sustainable Development: Perspectives of International Sustainability Science” with Anna-Katharina Hornidge (German Institute of Development and Sustainability), Karen O’Brien (University of Oslo), Hans-Otto Pörtner (Alfred Wegener Institute) and Markus Reichstein (Max Planck Institute for Biogeochemistry), chaired by Bernd Siebenhüner (University of Oldenburg), highlighted the political context and challenges for sustainability science, including geopolitical shifts and attacks on research. The speakers identified key themes, such as the need for transformative change and addressing authoritarian regimes. The session concluded with calls for stronger international alliances, improved science communication, and educational reforms to support sustainable development.
The second panel discussion “Transformation in Sustainability Science – Transformation of Sustainability Science” with Christiane Joerk (German Research Foundation, DFG), Marco Fritz (DG RTD, European Commission), Stefan Bartke (German Environment Agency) and Daniela Jacob (Climate Service Center Germany – GERICS, Helmholtz-Zentrum Hereon) was chaired by Michael Bollig (University of Cologne).
Here, the panelists highlighted the need for appropriate frameworks and funding for sustainability science, emphasizing interdisciplinary and transdisciplinary approaches. They conveyed the importance of clear communication between science and society, and the role of institutions in facilitating this. The discussion participants also stressed the necessity of national and European funding opportunities, and the integration of sustainability into research agendas.
In the final panel discussion “Science-Policy Interface: Challenges and Opportunities” with Katrin Böhning-Gaese (Helmholtz Centre for Environmental Research), Mark Lawrence (Research Institute for Sustainability), Jakob Lundberg (Future Earth), Dirk Messner (German Environment Agency), chaired by Axel Berger (German Institute of Development and Sustainability), the speakers engaged in intensive dialogue concerning the need for stronger collaboration between scientists, policymakers, and the public. Importantly, the panelists highlighted the importance of balancing precision with emotional engagement in science communication and navigating political resistance.
In her closing remarks, Daniela Jacob (DKN and Climate Service Center Germany, GERICS) accentuated the evolving role of social sciences and humanities in sustainability research, highlighting the need for interdisciplinary dialogue and rethinking research management. While addressing career options and sustainable research practices, the importance of retaining talent despite financial and legislative constraints emerged as key factors.
Overall, the conference showcased the necessity of improved science communication, increased visibility of scientific results, and stronger collaboration to address global sustainability challenges.
The DKN would like to thank all participants for their valuable contributions, committed exchange and stimulating discussions. Live stream and graphic recordings are available on our website.
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