University of Helsinki, Finland

The main aim of this workshop was to explore the nature of East-West interaction and exchange within the broad field of environmental studies post-1945. Such interaction has received relatively limited analysis and yet was characterised by instances of scientific collaboration and exchange around emerging global environmental concerns such as resource use and climate change. A purposeful scrutiny of associated activities and conceptual frameworks promises to provide greater insight into the emerging science of key contemporary environmental issues.

Particular attention will be given to exploring:

  1. Soviet engagement with international environmental scientific endeavour and associated policy agendas post-1945;
  2. Emerging conceptualisations of natural resources and associated utilisation strategies and policy initiatives, with a specific focus on energy resources within the context of East-West scientific exchange;
  3. Understandings of climate change and associated policy initiatives within the context of East-West scientific exchange.

The Workshop involved the following individuals:

  • Sari Autio-Sarasmo - Aleksanteri Institute, University of Helsinki
  • Julia Lajus - European University at St Petersburg & the Higher School of Economics (St Petersburg branch)
  • Emma Hakala - Aleksanteri Institute
  • Tomas Hermann - Centre for the History of Sciences and Humanities, Institute of Contemporary History, Academy of Sciences of the Czech Republic
  • Marco Stella - Centre for the History of Sciences and Humanities, Institute of Contemporary History, Academy of Sciences of the Czech Republic

First published: 13 September 2013

<< News & Events