Science, Society, and Sustainability - Closing the Knowledge-Action Gap

Are we doing enough to apply the available scientific knowledge to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and a sustainable society? Do we already have all the theoretical knowledge and necessary ideas to manage the climate crisis, and only need sufficient funding and political will? What are differences in goals and measures between the U.S. and Europe?

In an increasingly interconnected world, the pursuit of sustainability transcends boundaries, impacting every corner of our planet. From the remote expanses of the Arctic to the bustling metropolises of the global south, the imperative to safeguard our environment and foster sustainable development resonates deeply with communities worldwide. Amidst this global call to action, scientific innovations in sustainability emerge as beacons of hope, offering transformative ideas to pressing challenges. Across diverse fields – from renewable energy to climate resilience, from biodiversity conservation to equitable access to resources – innovators and thought leaders are pioneering solutions that align with the SDGs.

From educating the new generation to producing relevant research, and transferring their concepts into the society, higher education institutions on both sides of the Atlantic, alongside communities and businesses, have a global responsibility and an enormous impact on future citizen’s actions.

Doors open at 6:00 PM, event begins at 6:30 PM.

Join us for a panel discussion and our guests/speakers (TBA) to:

• Learn about the local, national, and global opportunities and challenges stakeholders face when working towards affordable and clean energy as well as broader climate action goals

• Focus on approaches German and U.S. American institutions take to close the gap between knowledge and action

• Discuss how we can overcome the societal impatience towards significant improvement in the climate crisis with the help of transformative innovation

• Exchange new ideas for pathways to a sustainable future

• Network with stakeholders from universities, businesses, and communities from Germany and the U.S.

The event is hosted by the University of Cologne New York Office, the German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD) New York, the German Center for Research and Innovation (DWIH) New York, the German Research Foundation (DFG) North America, American Friends of the Alexander von Humboldt Foundation, 1014, and the German Ambassy Washington D.C.