Interviews Campaign – Christine Matauschek (FT)

Christine, what is your organization’s role in the FAIR2Adapt (F2A) project?

As dedicated leaders of two key missions in F2A, we at Fresh Thoughts are responsible for the vital task of upscaling and disseminating the comprehensive results of our case studies across the European Union. Our mission includes actively engaging with the EU mission on climate change adaptation, fostering collaboration and networking impactful initiatives. In addition, we are proud to contribute our extensive expertise as experienced experts in the field of climate change adaptation.

How does F2A relate with you and your team’s background and interests?

At Fresh Thoughts, we are committed to leveraging our extensive and long-standing expertise in Climate Change Adaptation (CCA) to drive meaningful advancements in data accessibility and usability. With a well-established network spanning both the scientific and political communities, we actively support the transformation of data into FAIR (Findable, Accessible, Interoperable, and Reusable) formats. By doing so, we aim to enhance the effectiveness of future projects, ensuring that vital information is readily available for researchers, policymakers, and stakeholders alike. Through collaboration and innovation, we strive to create a more resilient and informed approach to tackling climate-related challenges.

How will F2A optimize and contribute to the development of climate change adaptation (CCA) strategies?

The process of FAIRification aims to transform data into a universally accessible and user-friendly resource, ensuring that individuals, organizations, and decision-makers can easily discover, view, and utilize a wide range of strategies, tools, datasets, and projects. By making such information openly available, stakeholders across different sectors can draw valuable insights, identify best practices, and, where relevant, seamlessly integrate these resources into their own strategies. This approach fosters transparency, collaboration, and innovation, ultimately contributing to more effective and data-driven decision-making in the face of pressing global challenges.

Which stakeholder groups can benefit from F2A?

Ideally, this wealth of information should be accessible to everyone—ranging from leading scientists conducting cutting-edge research to local policymakers, such as mayors, who shape regional adaptation strategies. Beyond that, it is equally important that ordinary citizens, who are directly affected by climate change, have the opportunity to engage with and benefit from these insights. By ensuring that data and resources are available to a broad audience, we can foster a more inclusive, informed, and proactive society where everyone, regardless of their background or expertise, can contribute to and benefit from sustainable solutions.

In your opinion, what do you think the importance of climate change mitigation methods will be like in the future?

I am convinced that Climate Change Adaptation (CCA) and mitigation methods are of critical importance at this very moment. As we strive to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and limit further damage to our planet, mitigation efforts remain essential. However, looking ahead, it is evident that adaptation strategies will become increasingly vital. As climate change continues to progress, societies around the world will need to focus on building resilience, developing innovative solutions, and adjusting to new environmental realities. By acting now, we can create a strong foundation for future adaptation, ensuring that communities, ecosystems, and economies are well-prepared for the challenges that lie ahead.

Which are the most significant challenges and opportunities related to climate change adaptation in your opinion?

It is essential that all stakeholders—governments, scientists, businesses, and citizens—work together in a coordinated and collaborative manner to effectively tackle the challenges posed by climate change. I firmly believe that the two most significant weaknesses we currently face are the lack of social consensus and the insufficient political enforcement of necessary measures. While scientific knowledge and technical solutions are readily available, widespread action is often hindered by political hesitation and societal divisions. To drive meaningful progress, we must foster a shared understanding of the urgency of climate action, strengthen public support for transformative policies, and ensure that political leaders implement and enforce ambitious strategies that lead to real change.

Which are your personal expectations for the FAIR2Adapt project?

I sincerely hope that the valuable results of this project will be widely applied and implemented across Europe. By leveraging the insights gained, policymakers, researchers, and local communities can adopt evidence-based strategies that enhance resilience and sustainability in the face of climate change. The success of this initiative depends on the willingness of stakeholders at all levels to integrate these findings into their policies, planning processes, and everyday decision-making. If effectively applied, these results have the potential to drive significant positive change, fostering a more climate-resilient and future-proof Europe for generations to come.

How far will the F2A project contribute to the improvement of citizen’s climate literacy?

F2A marks an important first step toward making data more accessible, laying the foundation for greater transparency and collaboration in the field of climate research and policy. By enabling stakeholders to find, use, and share valuable information more efficiently, this initiative has the potential to drive meaningful progress. It is to be hoped that F2A will serve as a catalyst for broader efforts, encouraging further advancements in data accessibility and interoperability. If successfully implemented, it could significantly contribute to improving decision-making processes, fostering innovation, and ultimately supporting more effective climate adaptation strategies across various sectors and regions.

Do you have professional ambitions and visions that you hope to achieve in the climate sector?

My personal vision is to actively contribute to meaningful change and transformation in both society and the professional world. I aspire to play a role in shaping a more inclusive, equitable, and sustainable future, where innovation and collaboration drive progress. Whether through my work, personal engagements, or advocacy, I am committed to inspiring and empowering others to embrace new perspectives and take action. True transformation begins when individuals come together to challenge the status quo and work toward a shared vision of progress and equality.

What are you proud of, personally?

One of the greatest inspirations in my journey is the opportunity to work alongside so many talented, experienced, and kind-hearted individuals. Collaborating with people who bring diverse perspectives, deep expertise, and a genuine passion for positive change is both motivating and fulfilling. Together, we have the power to drive meaningful transformations, create innovative solutions, and contribute to a better world. It is through teamwork, shared knowledge, and mutual support that real impact is made, and I feel truly grateful to be part of such an inspiring and purpose-driven community.

In your opinion, how can women be further supported so that gender equality can be sustainably improved?

It is crucial that we never stop talking about gender equality and continuously raise our voices whenever we witness instances where women are not treated equally. Silence only perpetuates the status quo, while speaking out can spark change and challenge unfair practices. By consistently advocating for women’s rights and calling out discrimination, we contribute to creating a culture where equality is the norm, not the exception. It is our collective responsibility to stand up, amplify women’s voices, and ensure that gender equality is always a priority in every context, whether at work, in society, or at home.

What would you wish for all ladies on March 8th?

My vision is of a world where inner values, such as kindness, empathy, and integrity, hold more significance than external appearances or superficial measures of success. In this world, women uplift and support one another, celebrating each other’s strengths and achievements. Rather than competing, they collaborate to create a nurturing environment where everyone can thrive. This collective support fosters empowerment and resilience, helping to build a society where true value is found in compassion, mutual respect, and shared success, rather than in outward recognition or material gain.

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