Events

Upcoming Activities

Plastic pollution is a global challenge. At the parliamentary breakfast on June 9, 2026, at the Bundestag, researchers and members of parliament will discuss how findings from Helmholtz research can be implemented in concrete policy measures for recycling, degradation, and the circular economy.

The parliamentary breakfast organized as part of the SPHERE project of the Helmholtz Forum Earth and Environment brings the latest research findings on plastic synthesis and end-of-life strategies directly to policymakers. SPHERE brings together expertise from several Helmholtz Centers to analyze scientific findings on the environmental impacts, degradation processes, and recyclability of plastics and to develop recommendations for action toward a sustainable plastics policy.

The event is held under the patronage of Michael Thews, Member of the German Bundestag and Vice Chair of the Committee on the Environment, Climate Action, Nature Conservation, and Nuclear Safety, as well as Marja-Liisa Völlers, Member of the German Bundestag and Vice President of the German Parliamentary Society. It offers brief insights from research as well as space for discussion on policy options, international initiatives, and sustainable circular strategies. Attendance is by invitation only.

German Bundestag © Anna Kolata
How do air quality and UV radiation affect cancer risk—and what policy measures are needed now? At the joint parliamentary breakfast hosted by the Helmholtz Forum Earth and Environment and the German Cancer Research Center on October 7, 2026, the focus will be on the latest research findings and concrete approaches to effective prevention.

The Parliamentary Breakfast aims to bring the latest research findings on environmental factors and cancer prevention directly to policymakers. The focus will be on evidence-based approaches to effective prevention, as well as on how scientific findings can be translated into concrete policy measures.

The event is held under the patronage of Sascha van Beek, Member of the German Bundestag (CDU/CSU) and member of the Health Committee, and offers brief insights from research and opportunities for discussion on key areas of action such as air quality, urban development, and UV protection. Attendance is by invitation only.
Solar storms and other space weather events can disrupt power grids, satellites, and navigation systems. At the parliamentary breakfast on November 12, 2026, researchers and members of parliament will discuss how Germany can better protect its critical infrastructure and prepare for extreme events.

The event, held in the Forum Flex Format, will feature brief presentations on research and practical applications, as well as an opportunity to discuss national preparedness, warning chains, and international cooperation. It is taking place under the patronage of Bettina Lugk (SPD), Member of the German Bundestag and Vice Chair of the Defense Committee. Attendance is by invitation only.

Events

Upcoming Activities

Past Activities | 2026

Past Activities | 2025

Past Activities | 2024

Past Activities | 2023

Past Activities | 2022

Events

Parliamentary Breakfast of the Helmholtz Forum Earth and Environment Project SPHERE

Parliamentary Breakfast on Air Quality and Cancer Prevention in Collaboration with the DKFZ

Parliamentary Breakfast: Resilience to Space Weather