Solutions to make science more sustainable

According to Paasche and Österblom, science is unsustainable because the way we currently conduct research has negative impacts on the environment and society. For example, the production and disposal of scientific equipment and chemicals contribute to pollution and waste. Additionally, the pressure to publish quickly and frequently leads to the overuse of resources and the exploitation of research subjects. To make science more sustainable, the authors suggest several solutions. One is to prioritize research questions that have real-world implications and that address pressing environmental and social issues. Another is to shift towards more collaborative and interdisciplinary research models that engage with non-scientific stakeholders. Additionally, the authors argue for incorporating more sustainable practices into scientific research, such as reducing energy use and waste, and using non-toxic alternatives to hazardous chemicals. Overall, the authors emphasize the need for a cultural shift in how we approach and prioritize scientific research in order to promote a more sustainable future.