acatech HORIZONS: Overview

Background

In the acatech HORIZONS series, the academy explores important technology fields that are already looming large on the horizon, but where there is still some uncertainty about their potential impacts. Twice-yearly publications address cutting-edge technology fields in a manner that is scientifically robust yet still clear and easy to understand. Informed by the state of the art in international research, development and applications, the publications also consider the technologies’ potential to add value. In addition, the acatech HORIZONS series addresses ethical, policy and social questions, as well as potential developments and ways in which they can be shaped.

In the acatech HORIZONS series, the academy seeks to stimulate discussion of new technologies, identify policy options and formulate recommendations, with the aim of contributing towards a proactive innovation policy.

Process

For the acatech HORIZONS series, the academy draws on an extensive network of experts from the scientific and business communities in a range of disciplines and industries. Input is provided by leading figures from technology companies and organisations, the start-up community and the major science organisations.

The results are published in two separate formats: a flyer containing the key messages and infographics, and a brochure that presents more detailed information. Additional information is available on the project web site.

The advisory committee for the acatech HORIZONS series was established on 7 November 2017. The committee drew up a list of possible topics for acatech HORIZONS publications based on the results of an acatech survey on technology themes. The advisory committee’s members are leading figures from science, industry and civil society.

The topics proposed by the advisory committee were discussed by the participants in the acatech portfolio conference. On 29 November 2017, acatech’s Executive Board confirmed the selection of Blockchain and Cyber Security as the topics of the first two acatech HORIZONS publications.

New technologies that will have a big impact on society: the advisory committee advises on the themes of acatech’s technology field analyses

While new technologies can transform our economy and society, they are initially only known to the experts. Through its new “acatech technology field analysis” series, acatech aims to communicate and evaluate these new technologies, stimulating public debate about them from an early stage in their development. An advisory committee comprising leading figures from science, industry and government as well as technology communication experts and members of the start-up scene met on 7 November to discuss the topics of the first publications.