The importance of Climate Communication

Climate change raises questions – but where can you find reliable answers? The KlimaatHelpdesk links questions from Dutch citizens about climate to relevant experts. What is ecocide? How can the music industry become more sustainable? What is the climate impact of space travel?

In recent years, with more than 400 experts from various disciplines- from physics, to biology, psychology, geography and law, and many enthusiastic editors, we have already answered over 200 questions. We aim to share scientific information on climate related topics with the general public in an understandable way.

Photographer Seth Carnill

The theme of this edition was: “Connection with Nature.

Together, they explored the issue in depth and answered the overarching question: how can we look at the world around us in a different way, and what does this mean for our actions?

There is a global sense of urgency to tackle climate change, biodiversity loss and growing inequality. Teachers and students are increasingly calling for more attention to be paid to these themes in the curriculum and research at higher education institutions. Together, we looked at how we can further shape our sustainability ambitions. It was a great programme with a plenary session, workshops, a Green Market and the Climate Casino.

Photographer Seth Carnill

Special evening at the Utrecht Science Park with the theme ‘infectious diseases’
During a special “Walking Dinner” at the Utrecht Science Park, the theme of “infectious diseases” took centre stage. Administrators, scientists, entrepreneurs and representatives from the city, region and country were given presentations and tours about innovative research, such as in the field of vaccines, antibiotic resistance, animal-free methods and microscopy.

Five years after COVID-19, it became clear how much progress has been made in better preventing and treating infectious diseases. The evening emphasised the importance of collaboration and knowledge concentration here at Utrecht Science Park, as well as continued investment in innovation and science.

Photographer: Seth Carnill

NPEC Utrecht (Netherlands Plant Eco-phenotyping Centre) opened during Utrecht Science Week 2023. In this lab with state-of-the-art robots, laser scanners, climate chambers and other installations, researchers fully automatically follow the growth and development of thousands of plants. At the same time, they map the influence of pathogens, beneficial micro-organisms and other factors, such as rising temperatures or prolonged drought, with extreme accuracy.

This research can, for example, provide building blocks for the development of stronger crops. These crops are more resistant to climate change and can do with less pesticides thanks to an interplay with beneficial microbes.

Photographer: Seth Carnill

The film ‘Picture a scientist’ follows three female scientists along their ambitions and experiences in a field once dominated by men. Their stories are interwoven with the insights on the subject from various academic luminaries, such as sociologists and psychologists. The result: an extraordinary search for the best way to make science as diverse, equal and welcoming to all as possible.

Photographer: Seth Carnill

Utrecht Science Week has started!
Last Friday, the fifth edition of the Utrecht Science Week officially kicked off with a keynote speech by Jan van de Winkel, CEO and founder of Genmab. In his inspiring lecture, he emphasised the importance of combining research, education and entrepreneurship in order to continue innovating in areas such as the treatment of cancer and other serious diseases. Many thanks also to Utrecht Science Park directors Wilco Hazeleger, Eva Reuling, Carina Hilders, Jan Henk van der Velden and moderator Mieke de Bruin for introducing and guiding the session. We look forward to a wonderful week, in which all the groundbreaking, world-class research at the Utrecht Science Park will be in the spotlight!

Photographer: Seth Carnill