For a sustainable future, success or failure lies as much in the hands of society as in governments and their legislation. In the search for a lower-carbon future, science, business, and industry occupy the territory linking government and citizen. They innovate the technology and services that can achieve sustainability through the consumer market place. There is ample evidence in universities around the world and at the technology exhibition currently at COP6 of an abundance of innovation both for moderation of carbon dioxide outputs and for adaptation to climate change. Acceptance of sustainable technology into the market place and conquering the risks of climate change call for the development of new relationships between business, industry, innovative universities and consumers.
Sustainable technology needs more than innovative ideas.
It requires public dialogue to transform society towards an energy-efficient market place and to produce lasting climate change solutions. The world is currently short of the types of organisations, mechanisms and representative groups that are likely to be required for this change of mind set. So just as universities have a role in technological innovation and solving of environmental problems, we also have a developing role in awareness and communication. Scientists and society alike have to realise that the benefits of responding to global change are not only altruistic towards future generations. The adoption of sustainable technology often brings immediate advantages in convenience, product quality, and finance.