GA at UN: Energy and Participatory Science
Session 6, Energy decarbonization and universal access: Participatory Science and Stakeholder Capacity Building in Sustainable Energy Development, was closely tied to SDG 7: Affordable and Clean Energy. Concepts relative to sustainability and energy decarbonization may not immediately come to mind when thinking of behavioral health or social justice, however, featured speakers passionately conveyed that having access to sustainable, clean energy sources is tied to health and wellness, as well as socioeconomic development. Two organizations were featured in this session.
First, the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), spoke to their program in which they work in countries and regions around the world to improve access to sustainable energy sources and build decarbonized energy capacity (i.e., reducing sources of energy that come from burning fossil fuels).
The second panelist spoke on behalf of the NGO Objectif Sciences International (OSI). OSI has been very active in providing opportunities all over the world for children, youth, and adults increasing knowledge about global scientific inquiries (e.g., climate change, endangered animal species, ocean conservation)—through camps, expeditions, and research projects. OSI centered their discussion on participatory science (also known as citizen science), which is the act of engaging citizens in scientific endeavors, like research. The panelist emphasized the role of participatory science in increasing individual autonomy, knowledge, and interest in global scientific issues. This in turn has positive implications for shifting cultural views about how everyday people can be agents of change towards global issues, such as climate change.
Access to participatory science opportunities remains an issue though. It is important that all individuals worldwide, especially youth, have equal access to be involved in science. Just as we see global disparities in education and health, it is important for OSI and IAEA to understand and address disparities that may crop up regarding access to clean energy and participatory science opportunities.