Business meets science + politics

For the eleventh time, Zittau/Görlitz University of Applied Sciences, the General Entrepreneurs’ Association of Zittau and Surrounding Areas, e.V., the Dresden Chamber of Crafts, and the Dresden Chamber of Industry and Commerce(Görlitz and Zittau branches) to the evening event “Business Meets Science” at the Zittau/Görlitz University of Applied Sciences.

If Lausitz, with its diverse regions, is to become a German pioneer in innovation and quality of life, the consequences of the politically driven coal phase-out—which will undoubtedly come sooner or later for economic reasons—can be mitigated. But even with the greatest commitment, the people of Lausitz can only achieve this if political will, an economic upswing, and coordinated support are also in place. But where do we stand in this process?

The Chamber of Industry and Commerce’s (IHK) latest 2019 business survey makes it clear: The pessimistic outlook for the future seen in recent surveys among Saxon companies continued into the fall of 2019—and in an even more pronounced form. The current business situation is also viewed negatively. In addition to the long-awaited and now noticeable economic slowdown, regional companies are primarily concerned with the phase-out of coal in Lausitz and the associated structural change. For the people, businesses, and communities, the question of survival is currently at stake: What will the region rely on for its livelihood in the future, here where lignite has shaped people’s lives for more than a century? And the impending structural transformation raises even more fundamental questions, such as: What opportunities might arise? What responsibility do the regional business community and academia bear toward policymakers and the people of the region in the transformation process?

We have invited two outspoken panelists to discuss the topic: Prof. Dr. Stefan Zundel , an energy and environmental economist from BTU Cottbus-Senftenberg, and entrepreneur Steffen Söll, managing director of the SKM Group in Boxberg. After presenting their perspectives on the topic, both will certainly not shy away from any questions during the subsequent panel discussion.

Following the event, there will be an opportunity to exchange ideas in a casual setting.