North Rhine-Westphalia is the most populous and economically the strongest federal state of Germany. The agglomeration of the Rhine-Ruhr area counts a population of 10 million and is one of the largest 30 city regions worldwide with important key industries. NRW counts 18 million inhabitants - more than the Netherlands. Because of its central position, North Rhine-Westphalia belongs to those areas in Europe with the most comprehensive access by traffic engineering. No other German federal state absolutely and specifically pollutes as much CO2 emission as NRW. The lignite-mining district with its four power stations is said to be the largest CO2 source in Europe.

The structural transformation from heavy industries to a service and knowledge based economy is decreasing CO2 emissions. But it is not enough. The transformation has to be accompanied by the installation of a resource saving and low carbon economy. Here, a future-oriented industrial policy and sustainable infrastructures have to be initiated. Research support and education initiatives have to take place in order to accompany societal change. In this respect the development of North Rhine-Westphalia affects Germany as a whole but it may also become relevant beyond as to provide patterns for post-fossil development. Since its foundation by the state of North Rhine-Westphalia, the Wuppertal Institute researches sustainability strategies for NRW. The research covers system analyses as well as several pilot projects like the energetic reconstruction of schools, tests of alternative public transport or e-mobile infrastructures. Concepts of climate protection and adaptation for the state, cities and regions are part of the research agenda. Studies of the Wuppertal Institute support the state government and parliament in their decisions on technology support like hydrogen fuel cells, carbon capture and storage, alternative fuels and e-mobility. Also companies in NRW seek the scientific competence of the Wuppertal Institute, big energy suppliers as well as municipal utilities, small and medium-sized business as well as branches and associations. They all appreciate innovative concepts and strategic consultancy with a scientific perspective.