ISF and Climate-KIC merger to boost climate action
Two like-minded organisations join together, combining robust research with systems innovation to catalyse change towards sustainable futures.
On 1 January 2024, Climate-KIC Australia (CKIC) became part of the University of Technology Sydney (UTS), working within the Institute for Sustainable Futures (ISF).
CKIC is a leading driver of climate action, applying expertise in systems innovation to a series of Climate Impact Portfolios (connected projects across multiple levers of change in chosen systems), projects and programs. Within ISF, CKIC will continue this important work and will collaborate with ISF researchers on new projects across the institute’s six research programs, particularly in the areas of heavy industry decarbonisation, climate adaptation and climate finance.
UTS has enjoyed a long association with CKIC, both as a key founding member of the organisation and the host of its Sydney headquarters. ISF, UTS faculties and CKIC have previously collaborated on projects such as the Business Renewables Centre – Australia, Fairwater Living Lab, and those within the Energy Upgrades for Australian Homes (RACE for 2030 CRC) and NSW Decarbonisation Innovation Hub portfolios.
The merger is a natural pairing of like-minded entities. ISF Director Professor Stuart White says, “Climate-KIC Australia and the Institute for Sustainable Futures have shared values and a common vision. Our work is highly complementary and together we can make an even bigger difference in the urgent task of catalysing climate action.”
In addition to the exchange of knowledge and expertise, both organisations stand to benefit from expanded networks. CKIC’s link to the EIT Climate-KIC (Europe) will strengthen ISF’s international connections, while ISF’s place at UTS will allow CKIC to scale up its activities.
CKIC CEO Christopher Lee says, “ISF has been one of Climate-KIC's closest collaborators since our very beginning. Our shared history, shared ambition, and shared values make this integration a compelling opportunity for us to unite forces and amplify our impact.”
Most significantly, the merger responds to the need for coordinated and collective approaches to climate change. Working together, ISF and CKIC can increase the impact of their work and fulfil their common goals.
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