The scientific institution of the multinational Carl Remigius Fresenius Education Groupwho is the first European university specializing in studies with clear sustainability focus, recognizes the democratic and politically pragmatic consensus. Martin kreebFounding rector of the University of Sustainability, welcomes the approach of People’s Party, Social Democracy and NEOS to write black people through green ideas. In large parts, however, the government program is still very imprecise, whereby the mental direction to strengthen the location and to maintain the sustainability goals is plausible.
Research as an innovation engine
The intensification of cooperation between universities, universities of applied sciences and industry to accelerate the technology transfer is seen positively.
“The promotion of future technologies such as artificial intelligence and renewable energies is essential”
So kreeb. “The financing of research must be secured in the long term. Research and education may not only be understood as a state task, but also need private including education and science initiatives as a supplement to advance Austria in international competition: leaders, small and medium-sized companies, as well as university spin-offs and start-ups make a relevant contribution to research and development. “
The innovative strength of the economy must be better used against the background of the economic challenges and the climate crisis.
“Targeted incentives for private companies are needed to anchor research and development even more in Austria. Clear concepts are still long in coming here “
Kreb explains.
Ambitious sustainability specifications with economic added value
An important signal is that the government is binding on the climate boards and is committed to the 17 UN sustainability goals. Investments in renewable energies and the improvement of energy efficiency as well as measures to reduce CO2 emissions contribute significantly to the achievement of climate neutrality by 2040. The increased use of technologies promotes the multi-dimensional transformation of the industrial and business location and creates sustainably future-oriented jobs. This includes, for example, the further development of effective CO2 storage technologies in which domestic companies are leading. The resulting negative emissions can make a contribution to climate protection. The announced close cooperation with science in order to develop adaptation strategies and protective measures against the effects of climate change creates added value and security for the whole country.
The commitment to the circular economy contributes to future -proof and competitive economic development and securing location in Austria. Digital technologies and solutions for the circular economy such as digital twin, digital product pass and digital raw material exchanges are nutrients for innovations.
“When the goals set to achieve the circular economy are achieved, Austria has the potential to be an innovation engine and European pioneer”
Kreb evaluates the government project.
Education: Competence transfer improves university access
The imparting of digital skills across all educational paths and age classes is relevant to both economic and democratic politics in order to form a mature and critical society. The digital inclusion of all reference groups is equally important to develop new digital business models in Austria and to promote innovation sustainably. The focus of artificial intelligence is an incentive to deal with new business models early and open -minded. The strengthening of school autonomy is to be welcomed from an academic perspective in order to facilitate the start of a subsequent course. Likewise, talenting and talent promotion as well as cooperation with universities in lower secondary level can make studying for future talents more attractive for future talents.
More information on uni-sustainability.at