2 / 2023 // LEOPOLDINA / NEWS 3
Editorial
Dear Members , Dear Friends of Leopoldina ,
In the previous newsletter we introduced the focus groups at Leopoldina , established to identify the need for advice in their respective specialist areas . In this issue we report on the first publication of the new focus group “ Climate and Energy ” ( see p . 4f .). The group addresses the subject of energy transition : In the fight against climate change , it is crucial that the transition to renewable energies takes place quickly . Unfortunately , the current pace of change is not fast enough . Therefore , the focus group outlined key ideas for transforming the energy system in a discussion paper in March . According to the paper , important aspects include reliable framework conditions for investments in renewable energy plants and infrastructure , expanding the use of energy sources such as hydrogen , and sustainable carbon cycle management .
The discussion paper was published in preparation for this
Professor ( ETHZ ) Dr Gerald Haug , President of the Leopoldina year ’ s Research Summit in Berlin / Germany on 28 March , where it was presented and discussed by Leopol-
Image : David Ausserhofer | Leopoldina
dina Vice-President Robert Schlögl . Each year the Research Summit brings together high-ranking representatives from business , science , civil society and politics to try and find answers to current problems and the challenges faced by research and innovation policy in Germany .
The key ideas formulated in the paper will also be an important part of Leopoldina ’ s discussion during the Long Night of Sciences in Halle / Germany . Every year thousands of visitors from the area attend the Leopoldina Night to learn about topics relating to science-based policy advice . Entertaining formats such as the Leopoldina Science Slam , the Lower House Debate and the Science Puppet Theatre help to explain complex scientific subjects , such as climate change , biodiversity and the energy transition , in an accessible way . This year the public is invited to discuss the main ideas of the discussion paper in the Lower House Debate .
We hope you enjoy this issue !