Recognition to modern day Alchemists!

Waste managers are modern day alchemists! But, their work and the industry don't get deserved attention from the wider community!

Alchemists tried turning base metals into gold and other precious metals, giving rise to today's Chemistry. Waste managers are however not just trying to, but are successful in turning "waste" into resources.

Two questions to waste professionals reading this:

1. How do you understand or perceive the work you are doing in the context of our world's sustainable development goals?

Context: "Sustainability is the ability to meet present needs without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs".

2. What aspects of your work might the wider community be interested in knowing about?

Context: Lack of recognition in the wider public generally leads to decrease in the flow of new talent in to the industry and to decreased investments on the long run. Keeping this in mind, if you decided to talk about your work with public for the next 5 years, what aspects of your work do you think they might be interested in knowing about?

Applied vs. Fundamental Research

As much as I am a fan of fundamental research, which is defined as "gathering knowledge for knowledge's sake", I would like to spend my time on Applied research. I think those who get to do fundamental research are lucky and gifted.

For others, who are not so lucky, and have decided to spend time on applied research because of their own choice or chance, here's a suggestion:

"Please always think about how your research will help the bigger picture. Always have that in mind.

At some point in your research, if possible at the beginning, define whose problems and what kind of problems you want to solve using your research."

All the best,

We have a lot of work to do!

Our future depends upon your success...