To achieve the United Nations’ 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), there is no time to waste. The International Decade of Sciences for Sustainable Development (IDSSD) marks the beginning of a new era, aiming to raise awareness of the importance of science for sustainable development and strengthen interdisciplinary collaboration. The Council of Finnish Academies serves as the national contact point for the Decade in Finland.
The International Year of Basic Sciences for Sustainable Development (IYBSSD), coordinated by UNESCO, concluded in July 2023. The aim of the Year was to enhance the visibility of basic sciences and foster collaboration between researchers, policymakers, organizations, and businesses.
The International Decade of Sciences for Sustainable Development (2024–2033), launched at the beginning of 2024, builds on this work with a broader scope. Its goal is to transcend disciplinary and knowledge boundaries to address the complex and urgent challenges of our time. UNESCO will monitor progress throughout the Decade and publish three key reports.
The Council of Finnish Academies played an active role in the IYBSSD international advisory committee and continues its involvement in the Decade as a member of The Earth-Humanity Coalition, which supports the implementation of the initiative.
Science as a Solution to Our Global Challenges
The Decade strengthens science-based cooperation, which is crucial for achieving sustainable development goals. This requires a multidisciplinary and multidimensional approach, bringing together different scientific fields, policymaking, and practical action.
Current production and consumption models are unsustainable, and the impacts of climate change are worsening. The planet is on a trajectory toward global warming exceeding 1.5°C by 2100, surpassing the target set by the Paris Agreement. Extreme weather events, such as droughts, floods, storms, and heatwaves, are becoming more frequent and severe, while biodiversity is declining and environmental challenges are escalating.
Through this UNESCO-led Decade, we are collectively laying the foundation for a more sustainable, just, and enlightened world. The Council of Finnish Academies is committed to advancing the role of science in decision-making and supporting sustainable development objectives.
Any organization can apply to have its event or project included in the Decade’s implementation, as long as it aligns with the designated themes. Each applicant is responsible for the successful execution and funding of their project. The next application deadline will be announced on UNESCO’s website.
More about The Earth-Humanity Coalition: https://earth-humanity.org/
Find more details about the Decade and application criteria here:
https://www.un-sciences-decade.org/en
https://www.un-sciences-decade.org/en/initiatives
https://www.un-sciences-decade.org/en/join