Responsible Research and Innovation (RRI) in support of sustainability and governance, taking account of the international context

The action will examine how science and technology development are embedded in the growing sustainability governance and better regulation discourses at all levels (Global to local), and further RRI uptake in the search for solutions. It will showcase examples of good practice in the governance of research and innovation in Europe and beyond, and explore ways in which RRI can further strengthen the role of research and innovation for capacity building and governance for sustainability. It will make an effective and timely contribution to the implementation of the Rio Principle 10, as well as Rio principles generally. The topic must consider all aspects of RRI including research and innovation governance, access to information, public engagement, ethics, science education and gender. This topic is open to international cooperation and should be alignment with European and global advances in this area.

In line with the strategy for EU international cooperation in research and innovation (COM(2012)497), international cooperation is encouraged.

The Commission considers that proposals requesting a contribution from the EU of the order of EUR 3 million would allow this specific challenge to be addressed appropriately. Nonetheless, this does not preclude submission and selection of proposals requesting other amounts.

This action allows for the provision of financial support to third parties in line with the conditions set out in Part K of the General Annexes.

This topic will contribute to the implementation of Principle 10 of the 1992 Rio Declaration on strengthening access to information, public participation, and access to justice, and the ensuing UNEP/UNITAR Bali Guidelines for National Action Plans, as well as other Rio principles. This topic will promote the uptake of responsible research and innovation within the context of sustainability actions, by involving multiple actors including researchers/academia, policy makers, industry/business and society to co-create solutions relevant to the further implementation of the Rio Declaration.

This action will demonstrate how responsible research and innovation can effectively contribute to global and European sustainability governance. It will assist R&I stakeholders to play a decisive role in devising and implementing sustainable solutions together with other types of actors.