At the TIME100 Talks in London, three leading figures examined the critical challenge of translating scientific breakthroughs into practical, global solutions—from environmental sustainability to space exploration.
In a discussion led by TIME’s Phil Caldwell, Ceres Power’s CEO, space scientist and communicator Margaret Aderin-Pocock, and Michael Short, former chief scientific advisor for the U.K. Department for International Trade, shared their experiences bridging scientific innovation and real-world application.
Addressing climate change
The panelists emphasized the urgent need for technological solutions to combat the climate crisis.
Caldwell highlighted the need for accelerated progress, noting that while technologies like solar and electric vehicles are gaining traction, the most challenging 20% of decarbonization—in sectors such as steel, fertilizer, and aviation—requires further innovation.
Ceres Power aims to expedite decarbonization in these sectors using green hydrogen and fuel cells, technologies that transform renewable energy into usable green molecules. Caldwell stressed the importance of investment in scaling and adopting these existing technologies.
Aderin-Pocock emphasized the role of science and innovation, especially satellite technology, in responding to climate challenges, suggesting potential for improved disaster prediction and response systems.
Science: a bridge or a chasm of inequity?
Aderin-Pocock acknowledged that while science and technology offer significant benefits, their distribution is uneven. She highlighted that those most affected by climate change often lack adequate technological support.
She underscored the need for inclusive development and highlighted the efforts to ensure equitable access to technological advancements, citing her work as an ambassador for the International Rescue Committee.
Short cited mobile connectivity as a tool to address global inequality, enabling financial transactions and remittances in areas with limited banking infrastructure. However, he also noted that significant portions of the global population lack internet access, and that even those connected face challenges like language barriers and a lack of relevant content.
Short emphasized the need for inclusive and adaptable technologies, stating that successful implementation requires more than just scientific advancement; it necessitates ensuring widespread accessibility and usability.
Confronting science skepticism
The panel discussed the significant challenge of overcoming resistance to change and distrust in science, which can hinder the adoption of innovative solutions.
Aderin-Pocock stressed the need for open dialogue and widespread science engagement, especially within underprivileged communities, highlighting her organization’s efforts to inspire public participation in science.
Caldwell suggested that promoting a positive vision of the future is crucial in overcoming resistance to innovation. He emphasized the importance of collaborative efforts involving political will and business initiatives, suggesting that focusing on the benefits of technologies like clean energy, rather than the perceived drawbacks of change, will be more effective.
The Power of Innovation: How Science Can Drive Global Solutions was presented by PMI.