3M Forward: Delivering Science-Based Innovations at Scale To Address Global Challenges

NORTHAMPTON, MA / ACCESSWIRE / May 24, 2023 / 3M

Foto: Accesswire

Originally published on 3M News Center

3M Forward is a program that highlights how materials science-based innovation at scale can help society progress against three unstoppable forces shaping our planet-climate change and resource scarcity, shifting demographics and social change and the convergence of the physical and digital world-and how solutions from 3M scientists, engineers and experts are building a brighter future. 

"The global reach of our business combined with our science-first approach to developing scalable solutions uniquely positions us to tackle the world's biggest and most pressing challenges," said Mark Copman, 3M senior vice president, new growth ventures.

This is supported by insights from the 2023 3M State of Science Index, which shows 85% of people globally see the connection between science and the role it plays in improving their life, and 88% believe that in the future, we will be more dependent on scientific knowledge than ever before.

"People around the world recognize the relevance of science in their lives and to their communities, and they look for it to be a part of the solutions driving change," said Dr. Jayshree Seth, corporate scientist and chief science advocate at 3M. "We must work together to overcome these global challenges and build a brighter tomorrow for all." 

Climate change and resource scarcity

Increasing rates of global development and decreasing levels of natural resources have contributed to negatively impacting the environment and accelerating global climate change. These impacts are widespread, and the risks extend beyond any one continent, industry or species-they present a global concern. According to the 2023 3M State of Science Index, 93% of people globally are concerned about the consequences of climate change, and 9 out of 10 believe science can help minimize the effects of climate change. 

To address these challenges, 3M is harnessing science-based innovations at scale to create more sustainable homes, businesses and communities. One way 3M is accelerating the delivery of new climate solutions to contribute to a low carbon economy is through collaborations, reflected in the company's recent partnership announcement with Svante. 3M and Svante will collaborate to develop Direct Air Capture (DAC) products for sale to the Carbon Dioxide Removal (CDR) industry. The company is also focused on alternative energy solutions-3M's Advanced Materials Division is developing an innovative 3M™ Nanostructured Supported Iridium Catalyst Powder that could make the production of green hydrogen more cost-effective, efficient and obtainable-potentially enabling a more sustainable fuel solution for manufacturing and industries where electrification is difficult, such as long-haul trucking or steelmaking.