In her foreword, European Commissioner for Research, Innovation and Science, Máire Geoghegan-Quinn, underlines the importance of scientific research, its contribution to innovation and growth, and its potential to address contemporary societal challenges. Now more than ever – she says – it is crucial to emphasise the central place of science in European society, at the heart of Europe's economy.

JRC Director-General Dominique Ristori, provides an overview of some of the initiatives launched by the JRC to reinforce the role of science in tackling key political and societal challenges, bringing together stakeholders from across the policy arena. In addition, he gives a glimpse of new cooperation networks forged during 2012, both within Europe and worldwide.

Among the topics featured in the report, the reader can find more information on the JRC's research and initiatives on eco-industries, standards, shale gas, water resources management, climate change in the Arctic, scientific support to the Danube strategy, biofuels and indirect land use change, connecting European science and business, making the transition to a low-carbon economy, researching food markets, prices and food security, characterisation and safety of nanomaterials, and climate hazards of  nuclear decommissioning.

In addition, an overview of the JRC's cooperative activities is described, highlighting the new partnerships fostered or enhanced during 2012.

To receive a printed copy of this report, please email your affiliation details to jrc-info@ec.europa.eu

Source: Cordis