Science, Innovation, and Public Policy for a Sustainable Future

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Professor Geoff Parker, Faculty Director of Dartmouth's Irving Institute.

On March 10, 2025, a panel discussion titled "Spotlight | Science, Innovation, and Public Policy for a Sustainable Future" brought together leading experts to address the critical challenges of climate change and sustainability. Moderated by Atul Arya, Senior Vice President at S&P Global Commodity Insights, the discussion featured Geoffrey Parker from the Irving Institute at Dartmouth, Peter de Menocal of the Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution, and Sunita Narain, Director General of the Centre for Science and Environment (CSE). The speakers highlighted the pressing need for interdisciplinary collaboration in tackling environmental issues, emphasizing that the complexities of climate change require diverse expertise from fields such as economics, engineering, and policy-making.

The panelists underscored the urgency of developing innovative solutions as global temperatures surpass the 1.5 degrees Celsius threshold. De Menocal pointed out the alarming acceleration of ocean warming and emphasized the importance of addressing energy needs, particularly in developing nations like India, as noted by Sunita Narain. She highlighted the impact of extreme weather events and advocated for affordable renewable energy solutions to combat energy poverty. The discussion also touched on the potential of technological advancements, such as the "Internet of the Ocean," which aims to facilitate efficient monitoring and carbon storage in marine environments.

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Narain Sunita, Director General of the Centre for Science and Environment (CSE).

The speakers placed great importance on data-driven decision-making, with Parker noting that credible, real-time data is essential for informing effective environmental policies. Narain provided examples from her work in Delhi, where a dense network of air quality monitors has enabled better management of urban pollution. Both speakers acknowledged the challenge of engaging the public in climate issues, particularly among youth who face climate anxiety. While some expressed concerns about youth disengagement, Parker sees a varied tapestry including many young people that are actively engaging in climate discussions and advocacy.

In conclusion, the panel emerged with a strong call to action, emphasizing the need for increased collaboration among sectors and innovative approaches to overcome the significant challenges posed by climate change. By prioritizing interdisciplinary solutions and effective public engagement, the panelists illuminated a pathway toward a more sustainable future, underscoring the vital role of science and policy in facilitating meaningful change in the face of a warming planet.

CERAWeek is regarded as one of the most influential annual conferences in the energy sector, drawing nearly 10,000 executives, policymakers, investors, entrepreneurs, and scientists from around the globe. Attendees engaged in a week filled with hundreds of discussions, covering topics such as domestic energy production, the influence of AI on energy systems, the rapid deployment of solar energy, the evolving policy landscape, and pioneering carbon capture technologies.

The Irving Institute brought 25 delegates who actively networked with industry leaders and exchanged ideas. Our faculty, staff, and affiliated startups delivered over two dozen presentations throughout the week.

Read about Dartmouth's engagement at CERAWeek 2025.

Read more about Professor Geoff Parker's CERAWeek panel disucssions:

• AI and the Future of Work
• The Essential Role of Industrial-Academic Collaborations