(initiated in 2009)

The solution to the twin challenges of global poverty and climate change could be found through science, technology and sustainable innovation. We must guide technological development and innovation to create a greener, cleaner and creative economy. Poverty can be tackled only if we invest in education, science and technology and innovation systems in developing societies. We have at our disposal right now the scientific knowledge, research skills and innovation capability to counter these challenges. What we lack is the will and the foresight to implement a new governance mechanism for scientific knowledge production; markets that are accountable to the management and diffusion of technology; and a fair and equitable distribution of innovation on a global scale. The international governance of science and technology – the parameters within which the international community integrates scientific information into decision making, facilitates innovation and ensures access to technology by those who need it most – are critical for addressing these and other critical sustainability challenges.

For more information, contact: Govindan Parayil, unuias@ias.unu.edu