• Question: Is there an area of science which you think we should explore more or neglect to explore further?

    Asked by Neil to Kevin, Liz, Beccy on 21 Jun 2017.
    • Photo: anon

      anon answered on 21 Jun 2017:

      I would put more money and effort into climate change science. It is so important and so urgent. And of course infectious diseases and public health!!

      What to explore less? That’s tricky. I’d like to see some of our really expensive equipment used more efficiently. Like if everyone shared their satellite data, then we wouldn’t need to put so many into orbit (saving a lot of fuel – and reducing the carbon footprint). But then scientists who work on satellites would almost certainly say they should receive more rather than less emphasis!

    • Photo: Liz Buckingham-Jeffery

      Liz Buckingham-Jeffery answered on 22 Jun 2017:

      I guess, similarly to Christl, I’d like to see more research into cleaner, sustainable, alternative energy supplies and making these a reality globally. I know scientists and engineers are working on these things but I think it is a priority that they are developed and, very importantly, available cheap enough to be used by everyone if we are not to further damage the environment.

      It is tricky to say what we shouldn’t explore further! I’m sure every scientist can make a good case for why their work is important! But these are exactly the decisions that the people who assign money for science research face. They have to decide what areas and which projects to give more money to, and I think it is a very difficult job. I wouldn’t want to do it!

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