In the face of multiple global crises and accelerating global warming, political decisions need to consider an array of factors and evidence. Policymakers not only must consider a wide range of input from stakeholders along with the likely unintended consequences of any action or inaction. As researchers, we want our expertise to inform political decisions. As concerned and informed citizens with scientific training, we watch with concern where decisions are taken due to one-sided information, clouded by populist motifs, or short-term gain. Especially in the climate science sphere, many researchers also identify as activists, taking the stance that watching from the sidelines and creating an understanding of the gravity of the problem is not enough.

This Short Course is aimed at researchers at all career stages who want to ease the dissonance between these narratives and are willing to explore their place on the continuum between environmental activism and detached professionalism. This session will acknowledge that there are as many positions along the continuum as there are individuals. In an informal setting, we explore the different positions that you, as a researcher, might want to take in the public discourse. Experts who are currently working on the interface of science, society, and activism through groups such as Scientists for Future will offer their positive and, potentially, also negative experiences as well as their motivation to act for change.