Innovation Under Pressure: Navigating complexity to drive change

A Call for Positive Impact and Progress 

January brings new beginnings. Innovations, plans, and strategies are all being put into place. Our ambition remains focused on driving positive impact through innovation, but there are challenges that slow this down.  

So, to kick-off the year, we wanted to share our latest white paper: Innovation Under Pressure: Navigating Complexity to Drive Change.  

This white paper discusses the many advancements we’ve seen in the last few years, some of which were rapidly embraced by the public (think ChatGPT, which racked up 100 million active users within 2 months) while for others these disruptions provoked fear and uncertainty. 

We also threw questions to the public, where citizens like you are calling for decisive action from governments to harness the positive impact of innovation. Throughout the white paper, you’ll find several prominent statistics revealed by a recent survey. For example: 

• 90% of respondents believe it is crucial for governments to ensure public access to accurate information about new technologies and to establish clear and fair regulations. 
• 89% of respondents emphasize the importance of maintaining ethical standards in the adoption of innovations. 
• And 82% advocate for fostering an open and balanced public debate on emerging innovations.

These statistics reflect a strong desire for a transparent and informed approach to innovation adoption. 

Misleading Information 

What is something that can hinder progress? You probably guessed it: Misinformation. 

Misinformation continues to be a growing concern in today's digital age, with one of the most significant consequences being the erosion of public trust. When false information spreads rapidly, it creates confusion and skepticism among the public. 

In addition to undermining trust, misinformation can also hinder progress and innovation. In industries such as tobacco, energy, and biotech, it can create fear and ethical concerns that slow the adoption of potentially life-changing innovations. For example, many people, including doctors, mistakenly believe that nicotine causes cancer, which is not true. This false belief can lead to regulatory hurdles and public resistance, making it difficult for new, less-harmful alternatives to gain acceptance or financial support for additional research.

It is crucial for policymakers, businesses, and individuals to work together to combat misinformation by promoting accurate information and fostering open dialogue. 

The challenge for everyone — from individuals to governments and transnational bodies — is to accurately identify, rationally discuss, and systematically evaluate and manage the risks of innovative products and services to benefit everyone. 

Over to you. How do you think we can foster innovation that drives positive change? 

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