Innovation for sustainable development

Technologies that benefit the global population: We present two concrete projects that show you how research and innovation can contribute to a more just and sustainable world.

Zentrum | ETH Polyterasse

Leaving no one behind – that is a central promise of the 2030 Agenda and the 17 Sustainable Development Goals. However, most people on our planet still live on less than $10 a day. For all people to benefit from scientific progress, technologies are needed that are affordable and adapted to the different regions of the world.

At the ETH for Development (ETH4D) booth, you can learn how ETH researchers contribute to sustainable development in different countries. Learn about methods for reforestation in the tropics that contribute to the fight against climate change and make your own seed balls to take home.

Are you interested in earthquake-resistant construction? Our 3D model shows you how engineers develop cost-effective methods to build earthquake-proof buildings and thus save many lives – a house on rolling balls, you haven’t seen anything like it yet.

We look forward to your visit!

To make a building earthquake-proof, it is built on elastomeric balls. This allows the building to roll freely on these balls during an earthquake, which protects it from damage and prevents its collapse.

: In the Guinea reforestation project, 500 families are involved in harvesting and sowing seeds to grow trees. Here they visit the reforested areas to assess the growth of the trees.