A SUSTAINABLE FUTURE IN OUR HANDS - To Parent Directory

Cross-cutting policiesResearchThe challenge that faces each and every one of us is how to makesure that our European way of life, with its values and standard ofliving, remains secure in the face of competition without exploitingand ruining the world around us.While we all have a role to play, some problems need to be solvedscientifically – alternative energy sources, ways to feed the world’spopulation, establishing access to clean water for all, ways of improvingcommunication – the realisation of these goals, and manyothers, rests in the hands of our scientific community.© CorbisWhat’s being done?While scientists look for solutions to the fundamental problem ofhow to find sources of clean, renewable energy and while Europefaces the challenges of globalisation, migration, unemployment andan ageing population, the EU is harnessing all means possible tosecure our futures.€50bn for research and development has been set aside underthe Seventh Framework Programme. This will run until 2013 andaims to:• Gain leadership in key scientific and technology areas• Stimulate creativity and excellence in European research• Develop and strengthen the human potential of Europeanresearch• Enhance research and innovation capacity throughoutEuropeCommunicating results and networking between scientists is alsoa focal point and the development of a European Research Areais underway to make sure ideas and results are shared effectivelythroughout the EU. Scientists need to be able to move aroundthe Union freely, having access to the very best communicationsnetworks. To help them push back the boundaries of knowledge,research institutions will be set up, exploiting partnerships betweenpublic and private sectors.072