The world is facing intertwined sustainability challenges that requires new knowledge, new partnerships, and new ways of enabling societal change. What is the role of science, and what responsibilities and risks should academics and their institutions take in supporting transformative change?

Prof. Henrik Österblom

Abstract

Scientists are often trusted knowledge providers in society, and benefit from their academic credentials and institutional affiliations. This means that they can communicate widely to different media outlets and audiences, including with policy makers and corporate leaders. Scientists can therefore shape sustainability discourses, policies and practice, including by publishing their findings in the academic literature. However, there are many ways to contribute to societal change, some of which may influence the credibility of scientists and their universities. How far should scientist go in terms of advocating for what they know and care for? Where are the limits to how scientists should engage in societal change processes?