Long-Term sustainability of RIs

A robust long-term vision is the essential prerequisite in order to successfully and sustainably operate a Research Infrastructure. The challenge of ensuring long-term sustainability (LTS) of RIs is very complex in nature. Recommendations listed in the ESFRI Scripta 2 on Long-Term Sustainability of RIs¹⁶ 16. Long-Term Sustainability of Research Infrastructures. ESFRI Scripta Vol.2, October 2017
https://www.esfri.eu/sites/default/files/ESFRI_SCRIPTA_SINGLE_PAGE_19102017_0.pdf and actions identified in the EC Staff Working Document on Sustainable European Research Infrastructures – a call for action¹⁷ 17. Sustainable European Research Infrastructures – a call for action. EC Staff Working Document, October 2017
https://ec.europa.eu/info/sites/info/files/research_and_innovation/research_by_area/documents/swd-infrastructures_323-2017.pdf remain very relevant elements of RI policy. In addition to scientific excellence as an indisputable key element, LTS requires an adequate legal and financial framework, and must be embedded in a supportive, policy-driven environment to be successful. Sufficient funding including adequate and sustainable funding models, required across the whole RI lifecycle to address the diversity of needs and the funding gaps, is indispensable for successful RI strategy. A joint effort combining European, national or other funding sources is vital for the healthy development of the pan-European RI ecosystem. For RIs to remain relevant throughout the entire RI lifecycle, scientific excellence is the condition sine qua non, which becomes, together with adequate human resources, crucial when it comes to long-term persistence in the operational phase. Effective governance and sustainable long-term funding (public and private) are other key elements for ensuring long-term sustainability of RIs at every stage in their lifecycle. All these LTS elements, though present and also referred to throughout the entire document, form a unique set, which should be considered and implemented as a general strategic guidance, and not only for ESFRI initiated RIs.

Moreover, Research Infrastructures should also contribute to their sustainability by moving towards their own carbon neutrality.