Challenge description

Science is an international endeavour and scientists travelling for work reasons contribute to travel-related CO2 emissions. In particular, the flight-related CO2 burden generated by scientists traveling to conferences casts a shadow on the highly enriching experiences that these conferences provide (NILU study, USCB study). Air traffic currently accounts for about 3% of global CO2 emissions and is rapidly growing. 

Develop a novel design for a multi-location conference that would take place in different locations simultaneously, uniting participants despite being separated in space and by the timezones.

The key questions are: How to create an experience of engagement and participation at both sites simultaneously? How not to lose the important aspect of personal presence, visibility and immediate Q&A? How to elevate networking on a new level beyond the anyway-pretty-restricted boundaries of the buffet table?

The motto is “Separated in Space, United By Science!”

Challenge vision

First, think big -- What makes a successful conference? What novel ideas do you have? Second, come up with solutions focusing on

• technologies for talks / question and answer sessions / posters / networking / social activities
• time zone difference
• various aspects of interactions including lively audience-wide discussion of scientific concepts / one-to-one with speakers / topical small groups / personal networking
• feasibility including management and costs

Additional info:

• Related solutions: Twitter conference, CARE conference, no-fly conference, a visual collaborative environment, commercial solution for virtual events.
• Related reading: Effects of Internet-based multiple-site conferences on greenhouse gas emissions, Researchers, set an example: fly less