Section 1
interviews
maija liiri
Interview by Kamil Grund Maija Liiri
Maija: We are living in extraordinary times. The pace of innovation is faster than ever, while at the same time our planet is reaching its limits. From a scientific perspective, we already have a strong set of proven technologies — from clean energy and electrification to energy storage and efficiency — that can significantly reduce emissions and reshape how we produce and use energy. The challenge is no longer only about invention, but about scaling these solutions globally. At the same time, we see emerging technologies across areas such as energy systems, materials, and biotechnology that can further accelerate this transition — and some of these breakthroughs may transform our world faster than we expect. I hope we can put aside our differences and join forces to act on this knowledge. Kamil: You have built a career at the intersection of international business, technology, and innovation. What leadership lessons have most shaped your approach to guiding global initiatives? Maija: Working at the intersection of international business, technology, and innovation has taught me that leadership begins with curiosity — not only towards science and technology, but equally towards people and cultures. Understanding different perspectives is essential when working across borders. At the same time, I draw strongly from the Finnish mindset of sisu — perseverance, resilience, and the determination to keep going even when challenges seem overwhelming. I’ve also learned the importance of listening more than speaking, as real insight often comes from others and strong collaboration is built on trust and respect. Ultimately, I try not to judge too quickly, but to focus on finding solutions — because in complex global environments, moving forward together is always more valuable than being right alone. Kamil: The most transformative innovations often come from unexpected places. What qualities or patterns do you usually see in technologies that truly have the potential to change the world? Maija: Looking across the Millennium Technology Prize winners, the most transformative innovations are not isolated breakthroughs but enabling technologies that reshape entire fields. They create platforms for progress in areas such as energy, health, and information technology. These innovations typically deliver a step change in performance, cost, or scalability — making solutions globally accessible and widely adopted, while generating broad societal benefit. Behind these breakthroughs are individuals and teams who combine deep scientific insight with persistence and the courage to pursue unconventional ideas. Often emerging from unexpected directions. Kamil: In an increasingly complex world, how important is global collaboration in solving challenges such as climate change, healthcare, and energy—and what role do international innovation awards play in encouraging this cooperation? Maija: Global collaboration is essential, because no country or organization can solve challenges like climate change, healthcare, or energy alone. In many ways, we are like ants — only together
Kamil: As someone leading an organization that celebrates groundbreaking innovation, what has been the most inspiring technology or idea you have encountered during your journey so far? Maija: One of the most inspiring innovations I have encountered is the IGBT developed by B. Jayant Baliga, winner of the 2024 Millennium Technology Prize — a tiny chip, often hidden from view, yet used across an extraordinary range of applications. Its impact on energy efficiency and modern electrification has been profound, making it a cornerstone of today’s technological society. What has stayed with me even more is Baliga’s own reflection: he developed this innovation to reduce energy consumption, and it has — IGBT has reduced global carbon dioxide emissions by over 82 gigatons in the past 30 years. This is equivalent to setting off carbon dioxide emissions by all human activity for three years. Yet despite this remarkable achievement, global energy use has continued to grow. It reminds us that even the most brilliant technologies alone are not enough — their ultimate impact depends on how we, as societies, choose to use them. Kamil: Looking ahead to the next 10–20 years, which emerging technologies do you believe will have the greatest positive impact on humanity and the planet?
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