ICRI
05 Dec 2024

The International Conference on Research Infrastructures (ICRI) 2024, held in Brisbane, Australia, brought together 420 leaders, policymakers, and experts from 50 nations to explore how research infrastructures (RIs) can maximize their societal and scientific impact. Representing ACTRIS, we were proud to contribute to this vibrant forum, demonstrating how our infrastructure plays a crucial role in advancing atmospheric science and fostering innovation.

ACTRIS Contribution to ICRI 2024

At ICRI 2024, ACTRIS showcased its unique role through two key sessions:

1. Side Event: Empowering RIs for Global Impact

Organized by EGI, this session focused on the transformative power of digital tools in enabling RIs to achieve global-scale impact. The discussion revolved around topics such as interoperable data sharing, artificial intelligence (AI) integration, large-scale computing, and software sustainability.

ACTRIS highlighted its innovative data management and digital solutions, emphasizing how they enhance scientific collaboration and data interoperability via the ENVRI-HUB Next project. With our centralized data center and cutting-edge tools, ACTRIS supports the scientific community in leveraging atmospheric data for climate research, satellite calibration, and more.

Key takeaways from the session included:

  • Interoperability as a cornerstone: RIs must adopt standardized protocols to ensure seamless data exchange.
  • AI and advanced computing: These technologies are essential for analyzing complex datasets and driving new scientific insights.
  • Sustainability of digital tools: Ensuring the longevity and adaptability of software is crucial for maintaining RI relevance and utility.

2. Main Program Panel: Research Infrastructures Business Models That Enable Translation

This session explored how RIs can bridge the gap between research and real-world applications, including industry and policy impacts. ACTRIS shared insights on its approach to fostering innovation through partnerships with the private sector and contributions to environmental policy.

Examples included:

  • Industry translation: ACTRIS’ collaboration with technological companies to develop sensors and calibration tools.
  • Policy translation: The use of ACTRIS data in shaping air quality regulations and informing climate adaptation strategies.

The panel underscored the importance of flexible and sustainable business models in enabling RIs to deliver tangible societal benefits. The discussions reaffirmed that collaboration with industry and policymakers is essential for RIs to address global challenges effectively.

The Brisbane Statement: A Milestone for Global Collaboration

One of the key outcomes of ICRI 2024 was the release of the Brisbane Statement, which emphasizes the critical role of RIs in addressing global challenges. The statement calls for enhanced international cooperation, investment in digital infrastructure, and the development of sustainable business models to ensure RIs can continue driving scientific and societal advancements.

Looking Ahead: ICRI 2026 in Italy

The ACTRIS delegation was pleased to hear that the next ICRI conference will be hosted in Italy in 2026. This is a unique opportunity for ACTRIS and other European RIs to further strengthen their role on the global stage and highlight the advancements made in fostering collaborative research and innovation.

Conclusion

ICRI 2024 underscored the vital role of RIs in addressing global challenges through scientific excellence and innovation. ACTRIS’s contributions highlighted the importance of digital tools and sustainable business models in maximizing our impact. As we look forward to ICRI 2026 in Italy, ACTRIS remains committed to advancing atmospheric science and providing actionable insights for a sustainable future.

Stay tuned for more updates and join us as we continue to lead in transforming research into real-world impact!