Our public lecture series “Sustainability in Computer Science” continues…

Michaela Zint is Arthur F. Thurnau Professor Professor at the University of Michigan, School for Environment and Sustainability.

Her lecture is on “From Algorithms to Empathy: Reimagining Computer Science for a Sustainable Future”.

Abstract

Computer science occupies a pivotal position in the sustainability transition: it is both a contributor to environmental challenges and a potential catalyst for transformative solutions. As digital infrastructures increasingly shape how people learn, connect, and respond to global crises, the design of computing itself becomes a sustainability issue. This lecture explores the intersection of computer science, climate change, and emotion—three dimensions that together influence human and planetary well-being. Drawing on interdisciplinary research in sustainability education, emotional science, and human–computer interaction, I examine how algorithms, data systems, and AI technologies affect emotional responses to the climate crisis, from anxiety and overwhelm to hope and collective efficacy. I also discuss how computing education can foster emotional intelligence, ethical reasoning, and systems thinking as essential competencies for responsible innovation. By viewing sustainability not only as a technical challenge but as a profoundly human one, the presentation invites both students and faculty to imagine new forms of computing that strengthen empathy, meaning, and purpose while advancing environmental goals. Ultimately, it calls for a redefinition of digital progress—one that aligns computing power with the emotional and ecological intelligence needed for a livable future.

Online Event

Switch on your laptop and join us via Zoom! Whether you’re a student, a professional looking to expand your knowledge, or a citizen interested in sustainability issues – this lecture series is open to everyone.

Public Lecture Series “Sustainability in Computer Science”

Sustainability is not an optional feature. Targeting economic, social, and ecological issues through sustainable development has become a must, not least since the publication of the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals in 2015. Computer Science (CS), and more prominently and recently, Artificial Intelligence (AI), is hailed as the solution to many sustainability problems (and yes, it is!). Still, energy efficiency and CO2 reduction must be considered to ensure fair and ecological use of resources. Hence, dealing with CS and sustainability involves two faces of the same coin: Sustainability with CS, and Sustainability for CS.

This public lecture series is unique in Austria, with all Austrian CS departments and faculties participating under the auspices of Informatik Austria. We want to raise awareness for the utmost importance of sustainability in CS, demonstrating research solutions to various problems, and triggering developments for a sustainable future.

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