Leopoldina Collegium 2025

The focus was on the central German chemical triangle and lignite mining region from the Leopoldina's headquarters in Halle (Saale). The aim of the college was to illuminate and discuss both perspectives - that of science and that of industry.
On the one hand, experts such as Prof. Dr Mario Ragwitz (Fraunhofer-IEG Cottbus and academy project ESYS), Leopoldina members Prof. Dr Jennifer Rupp (TU Munich) and Prof. Dr Robert Schlögl (President of the Alexander von Humboldt Foundation) as well as Prof. Dr Anke Weidlich (University of Freiburg and academy project ESYS) and Dr Ben Schüppel (Reference Power Plant Lusatia), the transformation of an "old" to a "new" economic region was highlighted. All participants were also able to find out what innovative approaches basic research into electrolysis and solar cells has in the pipeline.

On the other hand, journalists, scientists and practitioners were able to experience the consequences of the fundamental change from an "old" to a "new" economic region using Leuna and Lusatia as examples. This was combined with a tour of the Leuna chemical site - the largest closed chemical site in Germany at 13 square kilometres - where information was provided on research projects for the chemical and energy industry and current projects at the site.

The Leopoldina Kolleg 2025 was supported by the Alfried Krupp von Bohlen und Halbach Foundation (Essen).