As the world faces an era of converging crises—climate change, biodiversity loss, inequality, armed conflicts, and global health challenges—science must adapt to address interconnected emergencies. Our Managing Director, Alexander Müller, participated in the international conference, What Roles for Science in Crisis Times? Outlook in the Health, Environment, and Agriculture Interconnected Areas, held on April 7, 2022, in Montpellier. This conference highlighted how science can better serve people and the planet during acute and chronic crises.

Despite vast scientific knowledge, its potential often goes untapped due to disciplinary silos, slow response mechanisms, and inadequate integration of scientists in real-time crisis management. Climate-driven disasters, epidemics, food shortages, and socioeconomic inequalities demand a shift toward a more dynamic, inclusive, and integrative approach to science.

Policymakers must prioritize:

1. Diverse Knowledge Systems: Foster scientific collaboration across disciplines and encourage broader participation from developing countries to address global inequalities and region-specific crises.

2. Timely and Integrated Science: Build mechanisms that allow science to influence regulatory, policy, and financial decisions swiftly and effectively.

3. Public Engagement: Promote a culture of scientific awareness and public involvement to strengthen the links between research and societal needs.

By adopting a more inclusive, timely, and localized approach, science can play a transformative role in navigating today’s polycrises and safeguarding the well-being of all species. Access more insights from the conference in this publication.