Rethinking surface engineering – Conclusions from the 100th IUVSTA workshop dedicated to responsible surface engineering

The global challenge of climate change can only be solved by substantial reduction of CO 2 and water footprints, enhancement of energy efficiency and mitigation of biodiversity loss. At the same time, economic growth ensures well-being of the society. Responsible surface engineering comprises the sustainable use of resources such as raw materials, energy and water for the production of advanced materials. To orchestrate the research and development efforts toward responsible use of resources, changes in education as well as research and innovation strategies are urgently required. Rethinking of surface engineering has been the theme of the 100th IUVSTA workshop How sustainable are thin films and thin film processing? Pathways toward responsible surface engineering , which took place in Ludwigsburg, Germany, between 27th and 31st of October 2024. This workshop has been the first public, international activity of the Sustainable Development Working Group ( Sustainability Division since 2025) formed within the International Union for Vacuum, Science, Technique and Applications (IUVSTA). The main outcomes of the discussions during the workshop on education, research and innovation strategies are summarized in this article, with the aim of strengthening awareness and driving the necessary shift toward responsible surface engineering. This interpretation represents the view of the authors of this article and is not necessarily agreed upon by all workshop participants. We intend to provide a perspective on the current challenges and how to anchor responsible surface engineering into different frameworks such as education, research and innovation, publications as well as conferences.