Science has informed generations of development initiatives: modern medicine to fight disease, low emissions technologies, engineering to build infrastructure.
And yet in the 21st century, scientific research is still out of step with development pathways. For instance, despite having known since the 19th century that emissions of carbon dioxide are warming the global climate, fossil fuels continue to drive economic growth around the world.
So as the challenges we face — from population booms to a fragile economy — become increasingly severe and complex, it’s time for science to take a more central role in making development more effective, more sustainable and more fair.
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About the author
Farooq Ullah
Farooq Ullah is part of Future Earth Engagement Committee and executive director of the Stakeholder Forum. He is as special adviser to the British Parliament's Environmental Audit Committee and a member of the Alliance for Future Generations. Previously, he worked for the U.K. Sustainable Development Commission.
