The Institute for Climate Protection, Energy and Mobility (IKEM) is pleased to announce three high-calibre additions to its Advisory Board. Prof Dr Michael Mehling, Dr Juliane Thimet and Mikolaj Sekutowicz bring with them unique expertise and an exceptional commitment to IKEM’s mission. The new members were appointed to the Board in November and December 2021.
Prof Christian Held, Advisory Board Chairman: ‘I have already had the extraordinary pleasure of working with all three of our new Board members in the past, which makes me especially thrilled to welcome them to the IKEM Advisory Board. Michael Mehling is one of the most renowned lawyers in the field of international climate law. Juliane Thimet is one of Germany’s leading experts on water law and the consequences of climate change on municipal water management. Mikolaj Sekutowicz is a versatile entrepreneur who is successfully engaged in various fields around the world, with sustainability issues at the centre of his activities.’
Dr Simon Schäfer-Stradowsky, IKEM Director: ‘I would like to extend a warm welcome to our new members. Their work combines theory and practical applications, which makes them an ideal fit for our Board. They are a great inspiration not only to me personally, but also for our work at IKEM.’
Prof Dr Michael Mehling, Massachusetts Institute of Technology und University of Strathclyde: ‘I have been associated with the institute since its founding and have followed its development with great interest – in recent years, unfortunately, only from a distance. That’s why I’m delighted to be able to build a bridge across the Atlantic as an Advisory Board member and work directly with IKEM again.’
Dr Juliane Thimet, Bavarian Municipal Association: ‘Our climate is significantly affected by changes in water, which are accelerating. I advise cities and municipalities, water suppliers and wastewater utilities, giving a voice to their views and concerns at state, federal and EU level. This requires a solid scientific foundation. If IKEM researches and conducts research on these issues, there’s a great opportunity for synergy! We need agile, innovative approaches and informed decision-makers to manage these changes in our water resources.’
Mikolaj Sekutowicz, founding member and Vice President of Therme Group: ‘One Health Research Centre was jointly established by IKEM, the University of Greifswald and Therme One Health to facilitate evidence-based design for our environment, with the goal of developing an environment that promotes wellbeing for people and our planet. I am honoured to join the IKEM Advisory Board and look forward to further expanding the productive collaboration between IKEM and Therme Group in this capacity.’
Background
The Advisory Board was created in 2019 and supports IKEM’s work by recommending content and strategic priorities. Members are appointed for three-year terms and serve on a voluntary basis.