Abstract:
Engineers occupy a central place in modern society. By combining creativity and scientific rigor, they design innovative solutions to meet the challenges of our time, whether in health, environment or safety, to name a few.

Thanks to their expertise, they are also able to influence public policies and, consequently, become important pillars of socioeconomic development, well-being and governance of our contemporary society.

This workshop will allow you to learn more about the contribution of engineers to public policies, in particular through collaborative research as it is practiced at the École de technologie supérieure.

Summary of Conversations

The panel explored the crucial role of engineers in shaping public policies for socioeconomic development and environmental protection. Discussions highlighted the necessity of evidence-based policymaking amidst misinformation, emphasizing engineers’ responsibility to inform the public. Key topics included transitioning to a carbon-neutral economy, the importance of transition plans alongside net-zero targets, and the modernization of environmental legislation. The conversation also touched upon the circular economy concept, integrating resilience into infrastructure, and driving technological innovation in healthcare, particularly addressing hearing loss with accessible technologies. Collaboration between engineers, governments, and the private sector was underscored as vital for addressing complex challenges, such as the climate crisis.

Take Away Messages/ Current Status of Challenges

Engineers are central to infrastructure development and environmental regulation, necessitating their active involvement in policy formation.

• The transition to a carbon-neutral economy requires detailed implementation plans, not just overarching goals.
• Misinformation poses a significant challenge to evidence-based policymaking, demanding a stronger role for engineers in public education.
• Current levels of engineer involvement in governmental decision-making are insufficient.
• Existing environmental protection frameworks lack comprehensive transition strategies and funding mechanisms.
• Healthcare innovation requires multidisciplinary collaboration and regulatory adaptation to new technologies.
• Societal noise exposure is creating a silent epidemic of increasing hearing loss, necessitating accessible and innovative solutions.
• Technical standards are essential tools for engineers to influence sectors and improve healthcare.

Recommendations/Next Steps

Increase engineer representation in government to provide technical expertise in policy decisions.

• Develop detailed transition plans with clear milestones to achieve net-zero targets.
• Promote public awareness campaigns led by engineers to counter misinformation and highlight evidence-based solutions.
• Foster collaboration between engineers, policymakers, and private sector to drive innovation and implementation.
• Establish science-based advisory bodies to ensure policies are grounded in evidence and survive governmental changes.
• Strengthen engineering societies’ lobbying efforts to influence government decisions with technical expertise.
• Simplify technical reports for policymakers with concise executive summaries to improve communication.
• Invest in organizations that bring together academics, private sector, and government for collaborative projects.