Science policy conference to weigh Estonia’s difficult choices

ERR reports that a science policy conference will be held at the Riigikogu, Estonia’s parliament, on Wednesday, focusing on forestry, security and energy. The conference will be streamed via Novaator from 10 a.m.

The 13th conference, titled “Science as Estonia’s engine of development: Difficult choices: what do we know before we decide?”, will examine the data, knowledge and science-based forecasts policymakers need to make better decisions. Participants will also discuss where significant knowledge gaps remain and how to make informed choices when evidence is incomplete.

The conference will open with remarks by Riigikogu Speaker Lauri Hussar, Education and Research Minister Kristina Kallas, and Kristiina Tõnnisson, chair of the board of the Estonian Research Council and the conference moderator.

The first discussion will consider how Estonia can use its forests wisely, balancing biodiversity, carbon storage, jobs and income, and raw materials for higher-value industries. Speakers include Asko Lõhmus, a professor of conservation biology; Rein Drenkhan, a professor of forest pathology; and Petri-Jaan Lahtvee, an associate professor of chemistry and biotechnology. A panel will discuss how to weigh economic benefits against biodiversity and long-term impacts.

The energy session will focus on how Estonia can ensure energy is affordable, secure and competitive while meeting climate goals, and what knowledge and scenarios are needed for long-term investment decisions.