Energy and the environment represent two of the main global challenges that we are called to face decisively and quickly in the coming years. The close links between these two issues are well know; at the same time, the interconnection between the energy system and mobility is becoming increasingly indissoluble, especially in the light of new technologies. Ultimately, it is no longer conceivable to address any of the three issues without simultaneously addressing the others.
Acting on the energy-mobility system in order to avoid unpredictable and problematic consequences for the planet and for humanity is urgent and cannot be further delayed. However, energy, mobililty, and the environment are systems characterized by a high degree of complexity, which need to be approached by using appropriate methods - since standard linear, cause-effect approaches have proved to be ineffective. Also, the energy-mobility-environment system needs a multidisciplinary approach: while the technological aspects remain central, the economic, legal, political and social issues also play key roles - perhaps in less obvious but sometimes even more impactful forms.
From another perspective, we should consider that we are going through a phase of rapid transition from a centralized energy system (based on few sources, few actors and unidirectional flows) to a deconstructed system where sources diversify, energy flows are bidirectional and the distinction between producer and consumer is losing meaning. The consequences of this transition from an environmental but also an economic, social and legal point of view are very profound. It is therefore necessary to develop an operational capacity, capable of identifying solutions that respect the urgency and dynamism of these issues, addressing the problem with methods suited to complexity (sometimes with new and yet-to-be-developed approaches) that are based on transversal skills.
At the same time, it is essential to trigger efficient and rapid mechanisms for the transfer of knowledge: on the one hand towards the social fabric and towards the political-economic system, supporting the decision-making process; on the other towards the productive and industrial sectors, specifically for what concerns the new technologies.