Trust Science pledge

The International Day of Light (IDL) is held on 16 May every year, the anniversary of the first successful operation of the laser in 1960 by physicist and engineer, Theodore Maiman. First celebrated in 2018 by UNESCO, the IDL is a global initiative that provides an annual focal point for the continued appreciation of light and the role it plays in science, culture and art, education and sustainable development, and in fields as diverse as medicine, communications and energy. The broad theme of light allows many different sectors of society worldwide to participate in activities that demonstrates how science, technology, art and culture can help achieve the goals of UNESCO – education, equality and peace.

The message of IDL 2021 – Trust Science – encourages both scientists and the public alike to sign and support a declaration affirming their trust in science and the importance of public confidence in the scientific process. By signing the pledge to Trust Science, supporters of science including educators, scientists, engineers, healthcare professionals, Nobel Laureates, science enthusiasts, organisations, students and people worldwide are uniting to raise awareness of the importance of light science and technology in areas such as communications, sustainable development, climate action and healthcare.

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