Forum on Science, Technology and Innovation for Sustainable Development prior to Rio + 20

At a time when scientific evidence indicates that humanity has pushed the Earth system close to the limits of planetary boundaries, many worry that the current trajectory, if unchecked, could lead to a future of extreme global humanitarian crises. Future growth and effective risk management in an increasingly interconnected world will require an overhaul of the economic system.

In the lead-up to the Rio + 20 UN Conference on Sustainable Development, leading scientists will meet at a forum to explore the role of science and innovation as a drivers of the transformation to a more sustainable economy.

The five-day forum, organized by the International Council for Science, will bring together leading experts in a wide range of disciplines and sectors, and explore pathways towards a greener, more equitable economy.

Discussion will focus on a series of cross-cutting themes which pose the greatest challenges to the planet's carrying capacity: how to secure food and water supplies for a growing global population, how to provide energy in a green economy, how to adapt to a world of greater risk from climate change and disaster, how to ensure urban wellbeing and sustainable livelihoods which are more equitable and how to rethink social and economic models.

Provided by International Council for Science