The Interdisciplinary Laboratory on Climate Change (LINCC-UIB), the regional partner of the Clean energy for EU islands secretariat in Spain and coordinator of island actions in the country, has been awarded the Gold Medal of the City of Palma 2024. The LINCC-UIB was created in 2017 to advance climate change research and develop prevention strategies. This accolade honours its exceptional contributions to research, education, and public engagement on climate change.
The award ceremony, held on 31 December at Palma City Hall, recognised LINCC-UIB’s achievements since its establishment shortly after the Paris Agreement. Councillor Miquel Àngel Contreras emphasised its vital role in addressing one of humanity’s most significant challenges by fostering interdisciplinary collaboration and making scientific knowledge accessible to institutions, businesses, and citizens.
LINCC-UIB brings together over 60 experts from various disciplines, including law, economics, physics, biology, and geography, as well as organisations like the Mediterranean Institute for Advanced Studies and the Oceanographic Centre of the Balearic Islands. Together, they conduct impactful research, such as the Mallorca 2030 study, and guide energy transitions and climate policies.
The Laboratory’s initiatives include publishing the quarterly State of the Climate report, organising public forums, and training educators to integrate climate science into schools. It also collaborates on EU projects, like the Clean energy for EU islands secretariat, which supports sustainable energy transitions across the Balearics.
Directed by Drs. Damià Gomis, Pau de Vílchez, and Catalina Torres, LINCC-UIB exemplifies the power of science to drive innovation and address global and local challenges. The City of Palma’s recognition highlights the Laboratory’s crucial role in fostering a sustainable future and combating climate change.