Sigma Xi and Critical Issues in Science

At the World Economic Forum, U.N. Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon recently urged the international community to make it a priority this year to address water shortages around the globe, because of their potential to spark armed conflict. "Too often, where we need water, we find guns instead," Ban said, noting that population growth and climate change will only make the problem worse.

This is just one of the critical issues surrounding water, a precious and dwindling natural resource. In 2008, Sigma Xi will bring its intellectual resources to bear on this broad topic. Science has an enormous role to play in this and other issues facing humankind.

But how can science best inform government policy, both at home and abroad? As the multidisciplinary honor society of research scientists and engineers, Sigma Xi is in a unique position to be a leader in the science of science policy.

We will call upon our members to contribute their talents as we focus our efforts in 2008 on water, one of the most pressing issues in science today. The scientific, policy and ethical implications are monumental. But doesn't Sigma Xi have the best minds to put to the challenges in this area? Many other organizations also will be focusing on this issue, and Sigma Xi will serve as a waterwheel to drive continued conversations about it at all levels.

Our plans include white papers, blogs and podcasts, Science Cafés, a science film competition for students and an international forum.

Our Year of Water, H₂O₀₈, will culminate in a themed Annual Meeting in November in Washington, D.C. The highlight will be a panel discussion with experts in the field along with breakout sessions where we can share our collective wisdom on how the many policy issues that are the undercurrents in water might be translated into well-reasoned actions.