Dr. Gianluca Grimalda, a climate researcher at the Kiel Institute for the World Economy in Germany, faces the potential loss of his university position for taking a principled stand against air travel. Grimalda, currently in Papua New Guinea on a six-month research trip, has chosen to return to Germany without using a plane, aiming to reduce his carbon emissions by a significant 90%. Instead, he plans to travel via ferries, coaches, trains, and cargo ships, aligning with a commitment to a more sustainable and climate-friendly mode of transportation.
The situation took a contentious turn when the Kiel Institute reportedly provided Grimalda with only three days’ notice to return to Germany by October 2, which would have necessitated air travel. According to a statement from climate advocacy group Scientist Rebellion, Grimalda faced the prospect of a second warning if he failed to comply, leading to the issuance of a redundancy letter. His salary for September has allegedly gone unpaid, and his request for unpaid leave was reportedly rejected.
In response to the unfolding situation, Grimalda expressed his readiness to accept any legal and economic consequences resulting from his decision. He emphasized the mental health aspect of his choice, citing the growing climate crisis and the associated climate anxiety. Grimalda’s stance aligns with the increasing scrutiny on the environmental impact of aviation, with commercial flights contributing 2.5% of global CO2 emissions annually. The surge in flight demand and subsequent emissions projections have prompted climate activists like Greta Thunberg to promote greener travel alternatives, such as ships and trains.
Grimalda, an experimental economist and Scientist Rebellion campaigner, had been conducting fieldwork in Bougainville, Papua New Guinea, studying the interplay between globalization, climate change, and social cohesion. His authorized travel period ended on September 10, but unforeseen security threats, including a hostage situation with armed individuals, extended his research duration. Grimalda’s belongings were confiscated during the incident.
In response to these developments, the Kiel Institute issued a statement, asserting that it does not comment on internal personnel matters in public. It highlighted its support for climate-friendly travel when employees are on business trips. Regarding Grimalda’s claim of unpaid September salary, the institute refrained from commenting publicly, citing employee protection.
Grimalda’s journey from Germany to Papua New Guinea earlier this year took an environmentally conscious route, spanning 35 days and covering 15,000 kilometers overland to Singapore before boarding a flight for the second leg of the trip. Currently in Papua New Guinea, Grimalda plans to commence his return to Germany on October 8, opting for a cargo ship as part of his commitment to sustainable travel. As the situation unfolds, the clash between personal convictions, institutional expectations, and the broader discourse on climate action raises questions about the evolving dynamics between academia and environmental responsibility.