Transition UGentThe think tank Transition UGent is an innovation network in which dreamers and doers come together to formulate ideas for a more sustainable university.
Transition UGent is a think tank of committed staff and students, experts and policy makers, dreamers and doers who are all convinced that Ghent University can play an important role in the field of sustainable development. The think tank serves as an open innovation network, in which you can join us in keeping the enthusiasm high, bring new actions and suggestions to the table and stay closely involved in Ghent University's sustainability policy.
'Transition UGent' writes transition plans (climate plan UGent) and monitors the progress
Last year we discovered once again how valuable the Transition UGent network is. Commissioned by the Board of Governors, we are working on a climate plan. For all relevant policy plans, ambitions are set, boundaries defined, and actions formulated. The results are monitored yearly by the Board of Governors and actions are adjusted where necessary. We work aruond CO2-reduction, climate adaptation, biodiversity and circularity. An incredible task, but we could count on many of you: from your expertise, from your engagement, from your experience in the job. It strengthens the message, the credibility, the support.
Meeting of Transition UGent on 26/6 from 12h-14h30
12:30-1:00 p.m.: (NL) Plenary session with our future rector Petra De Sutter: What are the expectations and suggestions of Transitie UGent? What are the rector-elect's plans regarding sustainability?
1:00-2:30 p.m.: Join us at the theme tables:
Sustainability and education (NL): Because climate change and sustainability challenges are complex, multifaceted, and persistent issues that benefit from multiple perspectives, consideration is being given to the development of interdisciplinary Ghent University educational initiatives in which 'climate' (or, more broadly, 'sustainability') is approached from different disciplines. We are organizing an initial brainstorming session on new relevant courses, modules, or elective packages that lecturers from different disciplines can shape and develop together.
The role of scientists in the climate debate (NL): Scientists play a crucial role in the climate debate because, over the past decades, they have convincingly demonstrated that the earth is warming, with all the consequences that entails, and that humans are responsible for this. But how do we participate in the debates about the necessary transitions, both in society and within Ghent University? How do we avoid polarization and talk more about the pros and cons of what works? A process has been started together with Tomas Baum. This will be further developed.
Living labs (NL): Can our campuses and buildings serve more as experimental spaces for students, university staff, academic personnel, and external actors to work together to make the campus more sustainable? Undoubtedly, but this requires knowledge of the various construction sites at Ghent University and insight into the obstacles that project leaders encounter. The cluster coordinators present their projects for the coming years and m researchers. Perhaps this will inspire you as a lecturer or researcher to get started with this in your research, with student assignments, etc.
AI and sustainability (NL/ENG): As the possibilities of AI expand and accelerate, it is crucial to think ahead about both the opportunities and risks that AI brings.
Sustainable travel (NL/ENG): Since the coronavirus pandemic, the number of flights has been rising again year after year. We are looking at how we can refocus attention on sustainable travel and what next steps can be taken.
Building bee hotels (NL/ENG): Would you like to make a box for solitary bees, or are you more into butterflies or ladybugs, and would you even consider earwigs? Roll up your sleeves!
Climate Fresk (ENG): Climate Fresk is an innovative card game supervised by a certified expert and based on scientific data from the IPCC (Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change). The game teaches you about the causes and consequences of climate change and encourages you to think about possible solutions.
