05.06.24
TULIP Consortium Hosts “Research-to-Policy” Dialogue at Heidelberg University – Alte Aula
On June 5, 2024, the TULIP Consortium organized a “Research-to-Policy” dialogue at Heidelberg University, focusing on the complex interconnections between microplastic pollution, antimicrobial resistance (AMR), and climate change. This event brought together EU TULIP partners and invited experts to explore the challenges and impacts of these interconnected issues on aquatic ecosystems and human health.
Event Highlights
The dialogue featured expert presentations and a lively panel discussion, addressing key challenges and innovative solutions in policy, community engagement, and social innovation. The event aimed to bridge the gap between scientific research and policy-making, fostering a collaborative approach to tackling these global challenges.
Program Overview
The event kicked off with a welcome address by Prof. Dr. Karin Schumacher, Vice-Rector for Quality Development and Sustainability at Heidelberg University. This was followed by a video message from Prof. Dr. Philip J. Landrigan, Director of the Global Public Health Program at Boston College, USA. Prof. Dr. Joacim Rocklöv, the primary investigator of the TULIP Project, delivered a keynote speech on the project’s goals and objectives.
Expert Presentations
The morning session included talks on:
- The impact of plastic pollution on aquatic ecosystems and human health.
- The role of antimicrobial resistance in water environments.
- The effects of climate change on water systems.
- Knowledge gaps in understanding the links between microplastic pollution, AMR, and climate change.
Panel Discussion
The afternoon session featured a panel discussion moderated by Dr. Marina Treskova and Dr. Max Jungmann. Panelists included experts from various fields, such as Dr. Ana Liza Hombrado-Duran from the Philippines, Prof. Dr. Denise Margaret Matias from Germany, and representatives from NGOs and international organizations. The discussion focused on policy options, community engagement, and social innovation to address these global challenges.
Impact and Next Steps
The “Research-to-Policy” dialogue highlighted the urgent need for integrated approaches to tackle microplastic pollution, AMR, and climate change. The event emphasized the importance of community-based interventions, nature-based solutions, and robust scientific evidence to inform policy decisions. Future activities of the TULIP Project will continue to focus on generating actionable insights and fostering collaboration between researchers, policymakers, and communities.
