5 after 12: ‘The Great Transformation III’ encourages a rethink

How can society, the economy, and the environment actively shape the profound transformation? This question was at the centre of the third scientific transfer conference ‘The Great Transformation III - What happens now at 5 past 12?’, which took place yesterday on the Neuburg campus of the THI. The event, organised by the Research and Transfer Centre for Sustainability Neuburg (ForTraNN), brought together experts, students, and interested parties to jointly develop solutions for a sustainable future.

The participants of the conference discussed a sustainable future (Photo: THI).

Since its premiere in 2019, the conference has offered an opportunity for dialogue between science, business, and the public every two years. Workshops, discussion panels, and presentations provided space for creative ideas and practical solutions. This year's event focused in particular on climate protection and climate adaptation—topics that are of key importance to both companies and the general public.

‘This conference is much more than a platform for knowledge transfer. It initiates an interactive process in which research and practice learn from each other,’ emphasised THI President Professor Walter Schober. ‘We aim to jointly develop sustainable solutions that combine technological innovation with social justice and ecological responsibility.’

A highlight of the programme was the keynote speech by Professor Markus Bresinsky from the Ostbayerische Technische Hochschule Regensburg. Under the title ‘Resilience - what we can learn’, he addressed how societies can not only overcome crises but also emerge stronger from them. ‘The term ‘resilience’ seems omnipresent - but what is behind this buzzword?’ asked Bresinsky. The expert in international politics and social sciences explained how we can better understand risks and prepare for the unforeseen. His central message: resilience does not just mean adapting, but also recognising opportunities amid challenges. With vivid examples and scientific depth, Bresinsky appealed to a broad audience - from experts to interested laypeople. His presentation provided food for thought far beyond the conference.

The ForTraNN institute, headed by Professor Uwe Holzhammer, played a central role in the organisation and implementation of the conference and was also represented with its own presentations. ForTraNN networks companies, local authorities, researchers, and students, bundles sustainable activities and promotes practice-orientated projects that are both innovative and prepare the next generation for the challenges of the future. In this way, Professor Holzhammer and his team are making a significant contribution to positioning the Neuburg region as a pioneer in sustainable development.

 

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