The SFS wants to establish an international scientific network that recognizes, communicates, and actively works to counter the sustainability crisis. Regular dialogue and partnerships play a central role. Through webinars, events, and conferences, insights into the sustainability crisis are provided and sustainable solutions in science are sought. 

Prof. Dr. Jürgen Rödel led the webinar, consisting of over 100 attendees, and started by talking about emotions. Emotions are heavily burdened considering the climate crisis. Time for a solution is running out as CO2 emissions continue to rise and temperatures increase. This leads to devastating effects such as floods and desertification. Science warns of a narrow window of opportunity for action, as many developments may already have irreversible consequences. 

Sustainability means meeting the needs of the current generation without endangering the needs of future generations. Changes in climate, the biosphere, land systems, freshwater systems, and biogeochemistry since the 1950s have been dramatic and closely related to economic growth. 

Despite efforts such as the establishment of the IPCC in 1988, current efforts do not suffice, and the system is becoming increasingly fragile. There are barriers to sustainable development such as market failure, lack of international governance and legal issues, accelerated decision-making, and consumerism.

Technological solutions alone are not enough to address this crisis. Therefore, it requires a profound socio-ecological transformation to avoid exceeding planetary boundaries. The scientific community urgently calls for action to secure sustainability and ensure a livable future for generations to come.

If you have missed this webinar you can still watch itvia the SFS Alliance's website.

The next webinar of the SFS Alliance, “Is Sustainability Utopian? Complex Challenges and Concrete Action Principles“ will be on 24 April 2024 and be held by Prof. Dr. theol. Dr.-Ing. Christian Berg. We look forward to welcoming you there!