ROUND TABLE DISCUSSION IUT2026

Join our special IUT session at ESAT 2026: Round Table Discussion IUT2026 ^*)

Thermodynamic Principles for Sustainable and Circular Systems:
Key Dos and DONTs

As the world confronts grand challenges like climate change, sustainability, and the energy transition, a central focus is placed on how we can support a sustainable future. Efforts in these areas are being spearheaded by a range of stakeholders, including policymakers, academia, research and development institutes, and industry leaders. The role of thermodynamics is undeniable in achieving the desired changes.

Does the outside world beyond the thermodynamic community fully grab the implications of thermodynamics? And, within our community, are we doing enough to advocate for the importance of thermodynamics in shaping policies, priorities, and technological solutions for sustainability, circularity, and energy transition?

This IUT will explore the role of thermodynamics, focusing on :

• The Current Role : How is thermodynamics used today in shaping the development of sustainable technologies?

• Expanding the Role: What principles are not sufficiently understood or known for supporting circularity, energy transition, and sustainability?

• Communicating the Value : How can we better communicate the importance of these principles to those outside the field - be it in industry, government, or the general public?

The session will comprise selected lectures and a panel discussion with designated experts from academia and industry. The conclusions will serve as a basis for an opinion paper.