A clear and present danger: Investing in collaboration platforms to accelerate the transition to a green economy

A clear and present danger: Investing in collaboration platforms to accelerate the transition to a green economy

'A clear and present danger: Investing in collaborative platforms to accelerate the transition to a green economy' sets out a compelling case for why universities must scale up collaboration to address the climate emergency.

Climate change and biodiversity loss present urgent and systemic risks that demand coordinated and cross-sector action. Higher education institutions are uniquely positioned to play a critical role in this response. However, despite their reach into education, research, knowledge exchange, innovation and civic engagement, they require support, reform and (re)alignment to realise their full potential.

This HEPI Debate Paper argues that universities must move beyond isolated e orts and accelerate systemic collaboration through the continued development of collaborative platforms. These platforms – ranging from education initiatives, research centres and institutes, to catalysts, accelerators and multidisciplinary networks – could serve as a vital infrastructure for societal engagement and knowledge co-production, innovation and positive change. However, nancial constraints, misaligned policy environments, disciplinary silos and underinvestment in communication and engagement represent signi cant barriers to collaboration.

This report recommends targeted support and change to enable higher education institutions to connect and coordinate action across their collaborative platforms in order to drive green economy transitions at the scale and pace required for climate mitigation. 

You can view the report here: A clear and present danger: Investing in collaboration platforms to accelerate the transition to a green economy - HEPI