Policy makers and researchers unite to address societal challenges

On 7 October 2024, the Luxembourg Institute of Science and Technology (LIST) organized the Science & Technology Meet Policy conference at the Chambre de Commerce bringing together researchers, policymakers, and national stakeholders to tackle some of the country’s most pressing challenges.

This event emphasized how science and technology can drive innovative solutions to critical societal issues, particularly those related to sustainability, climate resilience, and new technologies. The conference featured iconic research and policy support projects conducted by LIST’s researchers, which fostered actionable solutions.

Arno Biwer, Group Leader Environmental Policies at LIST, stated:

“By aligning science with policy and business needs, we can create sustainable solutions that not only benefit Luxembourg but also serve as models for global markets. The projects we highlighted at the Science & Technology Meet Policy conference demonstrated how targeted research and cooperation of authorities and science can directly support policy and economic goals, driving innovation and resilience across sectors.”

Iconic projects included:

The waste and deconstruction initiatives

In collaboration with the Ministry of the Environment, Climate and Biodiversity, LIST ran several waste and deconstruction projects, which aligns with Luxembourg’s circular economy strategy. These initiatives aimed to optimize the deconstruction of buildings to ensure materials are reused or recycled, minimizing waste and creating value from traditionally discarded materials. The projects help develop tools and policies that promote sustainable construction and deconstruction practices, essential for Luxembourg’s sustainability goals.

Bruno Domange, engineer at LIST, said: “The construction sector produces over 7.5 million tonnes of waste annually, including excavated materials. Transforming this waste into reusable or recyclable components presents a unique opportunity to nurture a circular economy.”

PIWI cultivars in viticulture

Addressing climate change impacts on agriculture, LIST is e.g. leading research on PIWI cultivars — fungus-resistant grapevines that require fewer chemical treatments. In collaboration with the Institut Viti-Vinicole (IVV) and local grape growers, LIST’s research helps improve the resilience of grape production while protecting biodiversity in vineyards. This research is a prime example of how innovation in agriculture can balance environmental and economic sustainability and the long-lasting trustful collaboration between LIST and IVV is a great example for applied research for the industry combined with scientific excellence

Daniel Molitor, researcher at LIST, explained: “PIWI cultivars represent a promising avenue for climate mitigation in agriculture. Their resistance to fungal diseases has the potential to reduce the reliance on pesticides, to lower the carbon footprint of grape production, and to enhance biodiversity in vineyards. Moreover, these potentially more climate-resilient cultivars offer stability in a changing climate.”

Cyanowatch project

LIST’s Cyanowatch initiative tackles the rising issue of harmful cyanobacteria blooms in Luxembourg’s water bodies. By integrating citizen science through the Bloomin' Algae app, the project engages the public to monitor water quality, aiding early detection of these harmful blooms. This initiative demonstrates the power of science, public engagement, and policy in addressing environmental challenges.

Jean-Baptiste Burnet, researcher at LIST, reported: “We received about 50 reports of cyanobacteria blooms during Summer 2023 via the Bloomin' Algae app, the majority of which was accurate. This shows that citizen science can be truly effective.”

OPTIWAVE and 5G Connectivity

As part of Luxembourg’s 5G strategy, the OPTIWAVE project ensured safe and effective deployment of 5G networks. LIST has developed tools to help telecommunications operators and regulators meet both network deployment goals and electromagnetic field (EMF) safety standards. This proactive initiative positions Luxembourg as a leader in next-generation connectivity while prioritizing public health.

Sébastien Faye, 6G Technology & Innovation Line Manager, highlighted: “As part of the OPTIWAVE project, we have developed practical solutions for optimising network deployment while taking account of environmental constraints, particularly exposure to radio waves. These breakthroughs not only improve infrastructure planning, but also provide greater confidence to the public and regulators about the impact of new technologies.”

WeShareEnergy

The WeShareEnergy tool, developed in partnership with the Institut Luxembourgeois de Régulation (ILR), empowers consumers to share locally-produced renewable energy. By facilitating energy sharing, this project helps to promote renewable energy adoption and supports Luxembourg’s transition to a more sustainable and inclusive energy system.

Sébastien Pineau, Lead Partnership Officer at LIST, claimed: “The WeShareEnergy tool, developed with the Institut Luxembourgeois de Régulation, allows users to simulate and optimise their electricity distribution, making sustainable energy sharing accessible and simple for everyone. With it, ILR is empowering citizens to actively participate in collective self-consumption and energy communities."

A new partnership signed with CNFPC

Alongside this event, LIST and the National Centre for Continuing Vocational Training (CNFPC) signed a partnership to enhance their collaboration. This agreement aims to explore opportunities for organizing and delivering training programs in fields such as sustainable construction, water management, remote sensing, biodiversity, climate change, energy, and decarbonization. This collaboration seeks to strengthen ties between LIST and CNFPC, create long-term collaborations, and provide specialized training and conferences for public servants in Luxembourg, supporting current and future projects with LIST's expertise.