Exhibition: Scientists Feel the Heat – Research Facing the Environmental Crisis

Scientists have been warning us about the environmental crisis for years. Yet, the practice of research itself is far from eco-friendly or sustainable! What do they have to say about this? Does conducting research still make sense today?

We put this question to nine scientists: a lab director, science students, a climatology PhD candidate, an astrophysicist, ecology researchers, a quantum optics researcher, an agronomy researcher...

As you’ll see, there is plenty of debate! Some are mobilizing to rethink research practices, while others feel this hinders the progress of their work—and research in general. It’s a divisive, uncomfortable topic that raises almost existential questions.

The details:
The exhibition is organized into several sections with something for everyone: an introduction outlining the issue; figures on the carbon footprint of research; the debates sparked by these facts; initiatives moving beyond these intractable dilemmas; the interviewees' visions of ideal research; and books, comics, podcasts, and songs for further exploration. Not to mention messages left by the scientists for visitors—and a space for you to leave a message in return!

Don't miss the activity booklet!
Make sure to pick up the "Ça chauffe les méninges" (Brain-Heating) booklet, specially designed to accompany your visit! It’s a little notebook for you to take away, doodle in, annotate, and share... Grab a copy at the start of the exhibition—they come in all sorts of colors.