The Green Deal of Open Science: A Sustainable Future for Knowledge

• September 8, 2023

In recent years, there has been a growing global recognition of the need for sustainable practices in various aspects of our lives. This awareness has extended to the world of science, where the concept of the “Green Deal of Open Science” has emerged as a guiding principle for a more sustainable and accessible research ecosystem.

Embracing Open Science

Open Science is a movement that promotes transparency, collaboration, and accessibility in research. It encourages scientists to share their data, methodologies, and findings openly with the global scientific community and the public. This approach not only fosters trust and credibility but also accelerates the progress of knowledge.

The Green Dimension

The Green Deal, as outlined by the European Commission, is an ambitious plan to make the European Union’s economy sustainable by turning climate and environmental challenges into opportunities. This concept has been extended to Open Science, creating a synergy between sustainable research practices and environmental conservation.

1. Reducing Environmental Impact

One of the primary goals of the Green Deal of Open Science is to minimize the environmental footprint of scientific research. This can be achieved through various means, including:

• Digitalization of Research: Encouraging digital tools for collaboration, data sharing, and publishing reduces the need for physical resources.
• Energy-Efficient Computing: Promoting the use of sustainable energy sources for high-performance computing and data storage.
• Minimizing Travel: Embracing virtual conferences and meetings to reduce the carbon emissions associated with travel.

2. Sustainable Infrastructure

Investing in sustainable infrastructure is a crucial aspect of the Green Deal. This includes:

• Green Laboratories: Implementing energy-efficient practices, recycling initiatives, and utilizing sustainable materials in research facilities.
• Data Centers: Designing and maintaining data centers with a focus on energy efficiency and renewable energy sources.
• Eco-Friendly Supply Chains: Ensuring that the procurement of equipment and resources follows sustainable practices.

3. Promoting Circular Science

The Green Deal of Open Science emphasizes the adoption of circular economy principles. This entails:

• Recycling and Reusing Data: Encouraging researchers to build on existing datasets, reducing the need for redundant experiments and data collection.
• Open Access Publishing: Supporting open-access journals and platforms to ensure that research findings are accessible to a wider audience, thus maximizing their impact.
• Collaborative Research: Fostering interdisciplinary collaborations to tackle complex challenges more efficiently and effectively.

4. Educational Outreach and Engagement

Promoting awareness and education about sustainable practices in research is vital. This includes:

• Training Programs: Providing researchers with the knowledge and tools they need to adopt sustainable practices in their work.
• Engagement with Communities: Involving local communities and stakeholders in research projects to ensure that they benefit from and contribute to the scientific endeavor.
• Public Communication: Sharing the importance of sustainability in science with the broader public to garner support and understanding.

A Collective Responsibility

The Green Deal of Open Science is not a task for scientists alone. It requires the concerted effort of governments, funding agencies, institutions, and the public. By working together, we can create a more sustainable and inclusive research ecosystem that not only advances human knowledge but also safeguards our planet for future generations.

In embracing the Green Deal of Open Science, we take a significant step towards a more sustainable and equitable future, where the pursuit of knowledge goes hand in hand with environmental stewardship. It is a pledge to not only advance science but also to leave a positive and lasting impact on our planet.

Photo: Perin