International
Horizon 2020: Environmental Research Innovation
In contrast to previous Framework Programmes for Research, Horizon 2020 is to be a framework programme for "research and innovation". "Innovation", however, needs to be defined in a broad sense as regards environmental research so that the Helmholtz Association also is able to continue its contribution towards solutions for social challenges on a European level. This is because, especially in the field of environmental research, the development of innovative technologies is a lesser point of focus than is socially relevant data collection. Examples for this are the evaluation of earthquake risks or economic consequences of climate change. On 6 June 2012, the Brussels office of the Helmholtz Association organised a parliamentarian lunch to discuss this issue. Prof. Bela Buck from the AWI, Dr Susanne Pfeifer from the Climate Service Center at the HZG and Prof. Jochen Zschau from the GFZ presented the diversity of what "innovation" can mean in environmental research to representatives from the European Parliament and the European Commission.
