Marta Łazarowicz-Kowalik, Ph.D., Deputy President of the Foundation for Polish Science (FNP), participated in a meeting titled “Funders’ role in promoting environmentally sustainable lab research,” held on May 14–15, 2024 in Heidelberg and organized by the European Molecular Biology Organization (EMBO). The event brought together representatives of funding and research institutions, as well as developers of tools for measuring and reducing the environmental impact of research activities.
Scientific research plays a major role in developing intervention strategies to ensure a sustainable future for our planet and people. However, research practices, especially in laboratories, are not sustainable. Scientific community members, younger ones in particular, are increasingly calling for urgent action to address the environmental impact of their activities. Key resource-intensive areas include energy and water consumption, single-use plastics, travel, public procurement, and buildings. Funding agencies are recognizing their responsibility for sustainable research practices to a greater degree. Making strategic decisions, they can influence research topics and the extent to which research practices are sustainable.
The workshop aimed to assess funders’ progress in developing environmental strategies. This included identifying gaps and challenges, sharing knowledge and experience, and exploring possibilities for joint action. According to Fiona Watt, the EMBO Director, the workshop addressed a pressing need: “The workshop represents a significant step towards aligning efforts across Europe to promote environmentally sustainable research. By fostering collaboration and developing a unified agenda, funders will strengthen their role in driving sustainable practices within the scientific community.”
The organizers announced they will publish a workshop report soon.
More information about the meeting:
Picture: fot_Annette z Pixabay